Mrs. Liford was my first art teacher. I had her since the 1st grade and up until I left Shrine in 7th grade. She inspired me to continue into the arts and to never give up. Even after I left Shrine, I would still talk to her and see her. She even came to one of my volleyball games. Thank you for all you have done for me Mrs. Liford and I will miss you dearly.

I am so sorry for your loss. Keeping the Liford family in my thoughts and prayers.

I had Mrs. Liford my 1st-8th grade year.  Every time I saw her, she was always kind, patient, and dedicated to the people around her and on the task at hand.  I loved spending time with her during class because I had some of my best conversations there.

Thank you Mrs. Liford for helping me learn the value of art!  Your hard work and patience has paid off!  May God bless you and your family!

My dear friend who I was lucky to know for the last 32 yrs. 
Your heart was gold. I was lucky enough to spend time with you in college till a few days before you passed. I will always remember all the good times  we spent together laughing & enjoying a concert or musical together. I will cherish all our memories together. My whole family adored you. 

My heart hurts. I will miss you dearly. May you rest in peace with no more pain.  I love you with all my heart. 💜  Giselle Graham

Mrs Liford,
Your classroom was the first place where I learned about color theory, and experimented with different mediums. Where I began to find a way to process the world through visual expression. Where I began to understand art was a safe space for me.

I didn’t know then I would go to art school, and eventually pursue a career in art… or that you were teaching me a foundational knowledge of art history and creative expression I would build upon to this day. The impact you had on me as an artist has supported me along my journey in more ways than I can count - in life and in my creative practice. Every time I feel a little uninspired or stuck, I tap into the playful energy of your classroom - the joy you first sparked in me as a young student - to pull me through. 

I can imagine my experience is echoed in students you had before and after me, which is amplified by the love and care you so clearly had for each and every one of us. I will do my best to carry your spirit with me in all that I create. Thank you for everything. Peace be with you, and with your family. You are deeply missed.

Love, 
Colleen

Ms. Liford was such a good art teacher! Despite being an Ohio State fan, (beat UofM this year!) she always accepted others, not being mean to others because of the college they chose. (I'm an MSU fan) She has been one of my favorite teachers at Shrine and it has been a blessing to have known her since I was in first grade at the Grade School in 2018. Also, in sixth and seventh grade art, she would tell us what sports are playing after school. GO KNIGHTS!

I'm really going to miss you, Melissa.  Thank you for your wisdom, advice, and tough love.  This one stings a bit harder than my own family members passing.  My advice for the readers of this... be like Melissa.  Love God and love others.

Big big enteral hugs,
Phil Weiss

While teaching at Shrine, I was asked to share a room with Melissa. She was so warm and welcoming to share a space with. Getting to share a space with her felt like a hug. The students loved her, she loved them, and was just a wonderful coworker. I appreciated my time with her and she taught me to be tender and kind with my students in a way that I think only can be learned through example. May the perpetual light shine upon her, may she rest in peace

Miss Liford was a friend a teacher a mother most importantly she was a fighter. She was the strongest person I ever knew, and she never gave up me and her shared a love of The Ohio State buckeyes. Me and her shared  many memories about our love of Ohio State and when they won the national championship. I remember her being so excited and I’m grateful she got to be alive for that national championship win now and memory of her I would like to say one last OH-IO I will miss you greatly I believe Gods got you. Go bucks Love Luciana

Melissa had a powerful heart with so much love to give her students and colleagues.  I was amazed to see her fight her cancer with never a frown, as if her personality was not altered by her challenges.  May we all have that strength amidst our problems and have the courage of Melissa.  Always a kind word and a big smile.  She will be missed by Shrine and by me.

Missy 

Missy (ie Sweetie Face) 

Her spirit and kindness brought so much joy to everyone around, and it's hard to imagine a world without your laughter and kindness. 

I can’t help but think about her incredible strength and courage throughout her battle with cancer. 

She had a unique way of connecting with others, of making people feel seen and valued. Her kindness touched many lives. 

I find comfort in the thought that she is free from pain and surrounded by love. 

I will hold on to the memories of our time together, cherishing them forever. You will always have a special place in my heart.

With all my love,
Uncle Tommy 💜💜💜💜

OBITUARY

Melissa Jean Liford

February 21, 1972 – August 30, 2025

Pixley Funeral Home - John Desmond Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services