Melissa Jane Johnson

Melissa Upton Johnson

1/29/1959 - 11/7/2026

Melissa Jane Johnson, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on November 7, 2026, after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer. Born on January 29, 1959, in Sioux City, Iowa, Melissa was the cherished daughter of Marion and Bill Upton. She grew up in Kirksville, Missouri and graduated from Kirksville High School in 1977. Her life was a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love, family, and resilience.

Melissa’s life was filled with love and devotion, especially to her husband of 44 years, Terry Johnson. Together, they built a beautiful life and welcomed their son, Tucker, in 1996. Tucker was Melissa's whole heart. Melissa's heart was full as she witnessed Tucker marry the love of his life, Kylee, in 2026, achieving her greatest wish despite her illness.

A lover of all things vintage and coastal, Melissa's passion for nostalgia and beauty led her to open The Bluebird Cottage. Her keen eye for the past and the stories it told made her shop a haven for those who appreciated the charm of yesteryear. Her love for vintage treasures was a reflection of her appreciation for life's simple, enduring joys.

Melissa was a powerhouse, a force to be reckoned with. Diagnosed with cancer in 2022, she faced her illness with courage and determination, setting small goals that led to the fulfillment of her dreams. Her journey was one of bravery and grace, inspiring all who knew her.

Melissa's legacy of love and strength continues through her surviving family: her devoted husband, Terry; her cherished son, Tucker, and daughter-in-law, Kylee; her sister Molly Buckallew and her husband Kelly of Lancaster, Missouri; Vicky Clark and her husband Leonard of Kirksville, Missouri; her brother Billy Upton and his wife Marianne of Napa, Idaho; her sister Mindy Waddell and her husband Bob of Loveland, Colorado; and a vast network of 13 nieces and nephews, 24 great-nieces and nephews, and one great-great-nephew. Her memory will also be treasured by countless friends and loved ones who were touched by her warmth and spirit, include Stephanie, Lisa, Mary Jo and their beautiful families.

Melissa was predeceased by her beloved parents, Marion and Bill Upton, her sister Chris Hinkle and her brother-in-law Dave Hinkle, her sister-in-law Janie Upton, and her infant sister, Charlotte Jean Upton.

In gratitude for the care she received, Melissa's family wishes to extend their deepest thanks to the dedicated staff at the Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Center, ER, ICU, PCU, and Vitas Hospice Care. Their compassion and support brought comfort and peace to Melissa and her family during her most challenging days.

In honor of Melissa's life, donations can be made to a cancer research charity of your choice or MD Anderson Cancer Center (MD Anderson Cancer Center https://share.google/EflLpDhoTF2vtlySO ) Her family and friends will forever hold dear the memories of her vibrant spirit, unwavering love, and the joy she brought into their lives.