It is with a tender mix of sorrow and joy that we celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman, Melissa Ann Sherman. Born on June 28, 1985, in Grand Rapids, MI, to the Phipps family, Melissa led a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering sense of resilience. Her infectious humor and loving presence painted the world in vibrant colors, and her story touched the lives of all who knew her.
Melissa was a reliable rock in a turbulent sea for her friends and family. Her caring nature led her to a fulfilling career as a Certified Nurses Aide in hospice, where she provided comfort and support to those in their final moments. Even in retirement, Melissa's energy never waned. She was a source of constant laughter, best known for her inappropriately hilarious humor that could lighten even the darkest of days. As Mark Twain once said, "The human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter." Melissa wielded that weapon with grace and skill, using it to brighten the lives of those around her.
Her love for her family was unparalleled, and she was the safe space for her kids, always ready with open arms and a warm smile. In Dorr, Michigan, where she resided, Melissa could often be found basking in the sunshine, tending to her flower beds, or delighting in the company of her kids and grandchildren. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Jason Sherman, her mother, Beverly Phipps, her daughters, Andrea Sherman, Elise Phipps, Olivia Machleit, Kaylee Sherman, Olivia Tyler, and her sons, Jason Jr, Rayden Machleit, and Mason Rader. Her joy also lives on in her grandkids, Auden Newton, Aria Newton, Randall Null, and Austin Null, and in the hearts of her sisters, Jennifer Daily and Jessica Phipps, as well as her in-laws, Malissa and Mark Sherman. Melissa was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Phipps.
In the words of Albert Einstein, "There are only two ways to live your life: as though nothing is a miracle, or as though everything is a miracle." Melissa chose the latter, living each day as a celebration of the miraculous in the everyday. Her life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and laughter, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
To honor Melissa's beautiful story, we encourage you to share your memories and upload photos to the memorial page. Melissa's love and laughter will continue to live on in the stories we share.
Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.
To order
memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Melissa Sherman, please visit our
flower store.