Melissa Ellen Gomes
In Loving Memory
Melissa Gomes, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on Saturday, June 1st, 2024, at 8:55 am at St. Francis Hospice Center in Titusville, Florida, surrounded by her family. She was born on August 6, 1958, in Michigan and spent part of her life in Knoxville, TN, before settling in Florida with her beloved husband of 41 years, Mario Gomes. Together, they raised seven children, creating a loving and nurturing home.
Melissa was a woman of deep faith and attended Faith Baptist Church in Ft. Pierce, Florida, where she served as a kindergarten teacher and a bus driver for over 10 years. Her passion for teaching and guiding children extended beyond the classroom, as she and her husband became foster parents for many years, ultimately adopting a child. Melissa lovingly referred to her children as "We have his, mine, ours, and theirs," demonstrating her boundless love and acceptance.
Despite facing the challenges of breast cancer in 2008, Melissa's indomitable spirit allowed her to overcome the disease after five years. She embraced life with renewed vigor and moved her family to Tennessee to enjoy retirement. However, her dedication to children and community continued to shine as she actively participated in school events, spent time with her grandchildren, and engaged in various craft projects, such as creating bouquets for weddings and gift baskets.
Melissa's devotion to her faith remained unwavering, and she joined Friendship Baptist Church in Maryville, TN. In 2018, she faced another battle with cancer, undergoing chemotherapy, kidney surgery, and more chemotherapy. Throughout it all, Melissa remained a strong and positive fighter, never allowing her illness to dampen her spirit.
Melissa's life was filled with countless acts of selflessness, always putting others before herself. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Mary Garren, and her brothers, Woody and Dennis Garren. Melissa is survived by her loving husband, Mario Gomes, her brother, Slim Garren, and his wife, Carole Garren. She will be forever cherished and remembered by her children: Dwan Brown and husband William Brown, Madeira Gomes and wife Samantha Gomes, Paulo Gomes and his wife Nilda, Richard Gomes; Diana Pollard and her husband, Andy Pollard, and Cheyenne Gomes. Her memory will also live on through her beloved grandchildren: Bryson, Bryan, Emma, Brown, Davina Gomes, Emmie and Everlee Gomes, Matthew, Paulo, Thelma,Star Gomes, Randall, Brianna, Daniel, Sophia, Andrew, Philipe, Raquelle, and Gabby Pollard. Additionally, she leaves behind five great-grandchildren.
In accordance with Melissa's wishes, she wanted to donated her body to cancer research hoping to contribute to the advancement of cancer research and the discovery of treatments for cancer and other illnesses. Her selflessness and dedication to helping others even in her passing exemplify the remarkable person she was.
A celebration of Melissa's life will be held to honor and remember her. This gathering will be a time to share laughter, favorite stories, and cherish the many good times that were shared with her. Details of the celebration will be announced at a later date.
During this difficult time, may the memories of Melissa's love, kindness, and unwavering spirit bring comfort to all those who knew and loved her.