Melissa Marie Johnson, 40, of Riceville, TN, passed away, Monday, February 9, 2026.

Melissa was born October 7, 1985, daughter of Michael Alan Johnson and Selena Kindelspire. Melissa was born in Miami and spent her early childhood there. She later moved to the west coast of Florida, where she lived through her late teenage years and early adulthood. During that time, she built friendships and memories that remained important to her throughout her life. In later years, Melissa made her home in Dayton and lived in surrounding communities. She grew to love the area and the people she met there, creating a sense of belonging and connection. No matter where she lived, Melissa carried her faith, her heart, and her love for family and friends.

Melissa became Christian throughout her life. Melissa was a devoted Christian and found her faith in God at a young age. She believed deeply in Jesus and carried that faith with her throughout her life. Her relationship with God gave her comfort and hope, even during difficult times. Melissa often shared her belief in love, forgiveness, and grace with those around her. She cared deeply for others and wanted them to know they were never alone. Her faith was a source of strength and light, guiding her actions and leaving a lasting impact on those who knew her.

When Melissa was young, she dreamed of becoming a nurse, drawn to caring for others. Though she did not pursue that career, her nurturing and compassionate nature was always clear. She had a gift for comforting and supporting those around her. Her kindness and empathy left a lasting impact on family and friends. Even without a formal nursing career, her heart and actions reflected the care she wanted to give. Melissa loved cooking; she inherited her talent from her mother. The kitchen was more than just a place to prepare meals-it was where she expressed her love. She also had a nurturing spirit and took great joy in caring for her family and friends. Whenever someone she loved needed comfort, encouragement, or simply a faithful friend, Melissa was always there without hesitation. Above all, Melissa's love for God was unbreakable, guiding her actions, shaping her kindness, and strengthening her through every season of life.

She is survived by one son, Oaklee Lafe Johnson; her grandmother, Nancy Vyskocil; one sister, Michelle Johnson; and her aunt, Kimberly Chapman of Pikeville, cousin, Jennifer Smith, cousin Scott Ansano Smith, boyfriend, Chris Taylor, and uncle, Robert Chapman; aunt, Debbie Lindstrom.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Michael Alan Johnson, Selena Kindelspire, and grandfather, Joseph Anthony Vyskocil; one brother, Michael Joseph Johnson; and her uncle, Joey Vyskocil.