Beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, Melissa Connelly, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025 at the age of 59, surrounded by the love of her family.
Melissa lived a life of strength, resilience and unwavering love for those she cherished. A devoted mother, she always put her family first, offering endless support, wisdom, and warmth.
Above all, Melissa adored her grandchildren, who brought immense joy and light into her life. Nothing made her happier than being called “Nana.” She treasured every moment with them—cheering them on at their activities, sharing bedtime stories, or simply making them laugh with her warmth and playful spirit. She had a special way of making each grandchild feel loved, always knowing just what to say to bring a smile to their faces. Her love for them was boundless, and she leaves behind cherished memories that will last forever.
Melissa dedicated 26 years of her life to OneEighty Inc. in Wooster, where she made a lasting impact through her hard work and compassion. She was also a faithful member of Wooster Nazarene Church, where she found strength in her faith and built a community of friendship and support.
She loved spending time with family, especially enjoying shopping trips and playing bingo with her mom and sister. These simple joys brought her happiness.
Melissa is survived by her children: Amanda Coffman (Aaron Coffman), Bobby Compton (Ashley Compton), Christina Sisak (Kevin Sisak), Kirk Connelly (Steph Connelly), and Danielle Starlin (Justin Starlin); her ten beloved grandchildren: Sophia, Eleanor, Rori, Maizy, Bobby, Hudson, Kennedy, Makenna, Emmalee, and Addyson; her mother, Martha McCartney; and her siblings: Joe Shoup (Stacy Shoup), Theresa Barre (Craig Barre), Heidi Hedrick, and Heather Phelps (Tom Phelps). They will all carry forward her love and legacy.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Connelly, and her father, Jim Kissel.
A service to honor Melissa’s life will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM at McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster, with Pastor Jeremy Stasiowski officiating. Interment will follow in New Pittsburg Cemetery.
Friends will be received from 10:00 AM until the time of service on Monday at the funeral home.
Melissa’s love was a gift that will never fade, and her memory will remain a guiding light for all who knew her.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com
I developed a great admiration for Melissa in the few years that I worked with her at OneEighty. Her frankness was always refreshing and I know she could always laugh and get others to laugh in difficult situations. She will be missed by many. May she rest in peace ❤️
You fought a hard fight. I will miss you!
Melissa – I already miss you. I will see you again friend.
Danielle & Justin
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers.
I worked with Melissa for many years-I have so many memories with her. She was always in my office-and if she wasn’t I would go find her. I will remember our lunchtime trips, the laughs, and stories we shared about our families. She is definitely missed.
Amanda, Christina, Bobby, Kirk and Danielle and families. We are heartbroken for you all. Melissa’s light will shine bright in the legacy she left behind in her children and grandchildren. We were so fortunate to get to know her especially these last few years with several trips to and from Atlanta to visit the kids. She will be deeply missed.
I worked with Melissa for many years. She was the same honest person every day, in every situation. I loved her for this and her sense of humor. We had so many running jokes and laughs over the years. She was a great friend.
Tim and I are sorry for your Loss,Joe . You are in our Thoughts and Prayers
Praying for peace and comfort for all of you during this time of grief in the loss of your precious mother.
I met Melissa in such an odd way and our friendship became just absolutely a wonderful friendship she was a neighbor a good friend a kind person and a lifelong friend I will forever love and care about her she will be greatly missed I completely adore each and every memory I’ve had with her.
I worked with Melissa for close to 4 years. Her love for her family and her spunk will be greatly missed. She was always willing to help if you needed. Love you Melissa. Your fight was hard and your love in dedication will be missed. Prayers to the family.
My heart is broken. Melissa made working at One Eighty a much better experience than it would have been without her. She always had a smile and was such a hard worker and helpful colleague. Love and hugs to her family.
Melissa’s absence will be deeply felt. She was a wonderful conversationalist, and I always looked forward to her popping into my office for a chat and some much-needed laughter.
Melissa’s friendship, drive, spirit and contributions will not be forgotten. She endowed us with wonderful memories, they remain in my heart forever. May she rest now, in peace and free from pain.
John 16:22 – So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
Melissa’s friendship, drive, spirit and contributions will not be forgotten. She endowed us with wonderful memories, they remain in my heart forever. May she rest now, in peace, and free from pain.
John 16:22 – So also, you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
I’ve had the pleasure to work with her for the last 17 years. I’ll miss all the laughs, the conversation we had, especially when we would share stories and photo’s of our grandchildren. You will be missed.
My heartfelt condolences to family and friends of Melissa. I worked with her for almost 20 years. I echo what many have said. Such honesty, humor, and jot with her. She loved her children and grandchildren and talked about them all the time. The world has lost a good soul. Live life to the fullest and know she is smiling at you.
My heartfelt sympathy to the family. You were her world. I will miss my friend! So many memories and fun times. Till we meet again.
Melissa was a beautiful person inside and out. She loved her family so much. She was a wonderful person to work with and have as a friend. She will be truly missed.
Melissa had a warm smile and gave me support at times when I really needed it the most. I will miss her alot. I loved that she gave birthday parties for her dogs!
I had the pleasure of working with Melissa at One-Eighty. Her straightforwardness and laughter are two of the things I will fondly remember about her. She was a hoot!
May God wrap His arms around each one of you during this very difficult time.
I didn’t know her like most of you do…. I have had problems and would go to 180 for help. She was always so kind! Always had a smile on her face!!! I always thought she was such a beautiful person with the prettiest. Lue eyes!!! I am so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful person!!! God bless her family and friends!!!! God Bless you all and may you rest in peace!