Melissa Ann Smith was born on August 20, 1969 in Hobbs, New Mexico to parents Robert Roy Bice and Phyllis Ann Childs and entered into eternal rest on March 16, 2019 at the age of 49. Melissa was in the education field as a counselor and teacher for the past 26 years. She worked as a teacher and coach at Mabank ISD in Mabank, Texas, then taught fourth grade at the time of her death at Eustace Intermediate, Eustace, Texas. Melissa was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mabank, Texas.
Melissa was eager and excited to go back to school to pursue her counseling degree, because this allowed her to engage with the students in ways other than academics and help young people in molding their future.
Melissa enjoyed reading, music, and singing in the Choir. She loved her family and spending time with them was her greatest joy. Following her children and Mabank Panther athletics was some of her fondest memories. Melissa always had a positive attitude despite the life and health challenges she faced. She was strong, courageous and resilient. Melissa had a laugh that was contagious and was always up for any kind of adventure.
Melissa was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, O.J. "Buck" Childs and her paternal grandparents, Woodie and Inez Bice.
She is survived by her daughter Cali Smith of Mabank, Texas, her son Cole Smith of Mabank, Texas, her parents Robert and Phyllis Bice of Mabank, Texas, her brother Michael Bice and wife Amberly of Mansfield, Texas, her grandmother Dorothy Franks of Jefferson, Texas, and nephews Dane Michael Bice and Dixon James Bice of Mansfield, Texas. Uncles Frank (Kim) Bice of Midland, Texas and Michael (Terri) Childs of Edmund, OK. Cousins Dexter Childs, Susan (Joe) Jones, and Chloe Bice.
Special Memories and Expressions of Sympathy may be shared at www.EubankCedarCreek.com for the Smith family.
2 Timothy 4:7
