Melissa Gaye Gonerway

Melissa Gaye Gonerway, a woman whose vibrant spirit and unwavering faith touched countless lives, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025. She was born on November 5, 1966, in Cleveland, Mississippi, to her loving parents, Sarah and Eddie Nabors.

Melissa was a true force of nature, known for her outgoing personality and zest for life. She never met a stranger that she didn't like, and her generous heart meant she would truly give you the shirt off her back if you needed it. Her faith in God was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her every action and filling her with an abiding sense of hope and compassion.

Melissa pursued an education in cosmetology, a field that perfectly suited her ability to connect with people and bring joy to their lives. She also studied psychology, demonstrating her deep interest in understanding others. Throughout her life, Melissa lived in various places, leaving a trail of cherished memories in Greenville, Mississippi, and Longview, Texas, before spending her final years in Guthrie, Oklahoma.

Melissa is survived by her devoted parents, Sarah and Eddie Nabors of Indianola, Mississippi, and her beloved husband of eight years, Robby Spence of Guthrie, Oklahoma. Her legacy of love and laughter continues through her four children: her son, Kevin Commander of Arkansas; her son, Walter Shepherd of Edmond, Oklahoma; her daughter, Sarah Evans of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and her daughter, Kaylee Zimmer and her husband Ben, of Orlando, Oklahoma. She was also a proud Meme to seven grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Gregg Boyette and his wife Stephanie of Clinton, Mississippi, and Chip Nabors and his wife Sarah of Indianola, Mississippi, along with many other friends and family.

Melissa Gaye Gonerway will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her infectious optimism, boundless generosity, and unwavering faith will forever be remembered as an inspiration to us all.

Written by Kaylee Spence