Melissa Kay Sturgeon

Melissa Kay Sturgeon, beloved wife, mother, Mawmaw, sister, aunt and friend, passed away on January 8, 2024 peacefully at her home in St. Rose, Illinois after battling a long illness.  She was born in Breese, Illinois on February 17, 1961. Melissa's gentle nature and loving spirit touched the lives of all who knew her, and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Melissa had a vibrant personality that brought joy and laughter to those around her. She had an undeniable love for KSHE 95 Radio station and the music of that era. Melissa's enjoyment of cooking was well-known among her family and friends; she possessed an exceptional talent in the kitchen. Her delicious meals always created cherished memories during countless family gatherings.

One of Melissa's greatest joys in life was being a Mawmaw to her ten grandchildren. However, she would often playfully protest when they referred to her as "grandma." Melissa loved spoiling her grandchildren with love and attention; they were truly her pride and joy. Spending quality time with family was something she valued deeply throughout her life.

Melissa  was an unwavering Chicago Cubs fan. She would cheer enthusiastically for her favorite team during every game, displaying immense loyalty until the very end.

Melissa leaves behind a legacy of love that will be cherished by those who survive her. She is survived by her husband, Donald Sturgeon; her children: Dennis (Jen) Sturgeon of St. Rose, Illinois; Bo (Jacob) Sturgeon of Lakewood, Colorado; Ryan (Dani) Sturgeon of Olathe, Kansas; and Jana Sturgeon of Sandoval, Illinois.

Melissa's siblings, Larry (Rachelle) Delahunt of Foley, Alabama, and Hope Delahunt of Breese, Illinois, will always hold a special place in their hearts for their beloved sister.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edith and William Delahunt, her brother, Marc Delahunt, and her grandparents, William and Olive "Sue" Delahunt and Elmer and Sadie Richey.

Melissa's memory will be treasured by her ten grandchildren: Austin, Emaly, Abigail, Zachary, Rebecca, Grayce, Jacob, Nicholas, Bailey, and Hadley. Each grandchild held a unique place in her heart, and she delighted in watching them grow and flourish.

Melissa's life will be celebrated with services at Life Church in Carlyle. Visitation will take place on January 19, 2024, at Life Church Carlyle from 5:00 PM until 6:00 PM with a celebration of life service to follow.

Memorials made in memory of Melissa are suggested to her family; checks can be made payable to Dennis Sturgeon and will be received at church or Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231.

Private burial will take place at Carlyle Township Cemetery at a later date.