Melissa Griffith

Melissa was born and raised in a small town of Summerdale, Pennsylvania. As the cherished baby of the family, and the only girl, she shared her childhood with three older brothers and loving parents.

Her vivacious personality and dramatic flair were already evident at an early age. Melissa landed a role in a traveling, theatrical production of the Sound of Music at the tender age of five. In high school, she dazzled audiences as a majorette and helped lead her marching band to become state champions.

She found her way to Atlanta in the early 1980s in order to attend Bauder Fashion College. A talented hairdresser noticed her skills and the rest is history. Clients quickly morphed into friends and countless life long relationships were born.

Her greatest fulfillment was realized when she became a mother; a role so natural and instinctive to her it was clear that she was destined for it. Her devotion to her children was evident to anyone who knew her...she loved them beyond measure. Both the daughter she shared with Bill Odette, Rhanatah and the son she shared with Tim Smith, Kieran.

Music was always surrounding Melissa; it surprised no one that she fell in love and married a talented young bass player from Louisiana named Tim Smith. Melissa rarely missed an opportunity to watch Tim perform; a more devoted fan would be difficult to imagine.

To say that Melissa was a cherished friend to many is an understatement. Her generous nature and infectious charm touched all who were near her. She could entertain like nobody else, her door was always open and magnificent things would come out of her magical kitchen. Evenings on her porch were special times.

Her two grandsons have been the source of unparalleled joy for Melissa. She wanted to spend every possible moment with them and they adored their Gaga.

Melissa never sat still, whether cutting hair, teaching Pilates or vacationing, she was always eager to take in life to the fullest. You could find her at the beach or the lake or the newest restaurant in town. Her gorgeous open smile and golden blonde hair brightened every space she inhabited. She shone with the brightest light. A radiant, loving and loyal soul, she will be missed deeply by all. May she rest in God's arms.

A Family Hosted Memorial service will be held Thursday March 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 435 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308.

A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory, 2773 N Decatur Rd Decatur, GA 30033, handled arrangements.

If you would like to donate to the flowers for the service please do so here and in the memo line write for Melissa Griffith: https://onrealm.org/StLukesEpiscopa60924/-/form/give/now

To leave electronic condolence please visit: https://www.asturner.com/obituaries/melissa-griffith