Melissa Haplea

Born November 1, 1957, in Cold Spring, NY she was the eldest daughter of Jim and Claudia Hopper. She was raised in Glen Burnie, MD where she built the strong foundation of family values and resilience that would define her life.

In 1985, while in Virginia Beach, Melissa met the love of her life, Gene Haplea. The two were married in 1986 in Norfolk and began a marriage that would span nearly four decades, defined by devotion, partnership, and unwavering love. They spent most of their married life in New Jersey, where they raised their three children and created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and enduring memories. In 2016, her and Gene escaped the cold up north and took up residence in The Villages, FL, where she would later become neighbors with her sister, Priscilla.

Melissa built a thriving real estate career spanning more than 40 years. She rose into management with Weichert Realtors for over two decades and continued serving clients for The Properties of the Villages until her retirement in 2022. Her professionalism, leadership, and genuine care for others left a lasting impact on colleagues and clients alike.

A loving wife, mother, and grandmother, Melissa embraced life with enthusiasm. She loved dancing, sipping wine, music, and was always up for an impromptu shopping trip. She enjoyed traveling and cruising with Gene, exploring new destinations and creating cherished memories together. At home, she found joy in relaxing on the lanai, swimming in the pool, gardening, and decorating — always on the lookout for the perfect rustic treasure.

During the COVID pandemic, Melissa discovered a passion for 1,000-piece puzzles, a hobby she lovingly passed on to her grandson Jaxson. She also developed a deep interest in genealogy through AncestryDNA, dedicating herself to tracing her family lineage back hundreds of years. She was very proud of her Irish heritage, and was fortunate enough to embark on a family trip with relatives to their homeland in 2023.

Melissa adored her grandchildren, who kept her active and filled her days with laughter. They loved their “Gammy” beyond measure. Her faithful guard dog, Oakley, remained lovingly by her side, especially in her final days.

Throughout Gene’s distinguished career in the United States Navy, Melissa exemplified the strength and grace of a model Navy wife — courageously holding down the home front and raising their children while her husband served around the globe. She did so selflessly, bravely and without hesitation.

Melissa was predeceased by her parents, Jim and Claudia Hopper.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Gene Haplea (USN Ret.), of The Villages; her loving children, Megan Newman (Kenny), Gretchen Haplea, and Kevin Haplea; her sister, Priscilla Barker (Jerome); nephews Justin Barker and Trent Barker; and her cherished grandchildren, Jaxson, Blair, Kyler, Luke, and Maeve.

Melissa was loved fiercely by her family and friends alike and will be deeply missed. Heaven has gained one incredible angel.

A remembrance service will be held on Tuesday, March 3, 10:00 AM at Dignity Memorial Life Celebration Center located at 7134 Powell Road in Wildwood FL.

Final services will take place in New Jersey, with interment at Washington Crossing National Cemetery. Dates will be announced when arrangements are complete.

In lieu of flowers, donations greatly appreciated and can be made by following the below web link:

Cornerstone Hospice

A Celebration of Life will be held at Dignity Memorial Life Celebration Center, located at 7134 Powell Road, Wildwood, FL, 34785, US. The service is scheduled for March 3, 2026, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.