Melissa Anne Kavanagh

Melissa was born on December 28, 1960, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Robert Morris and Anne Williamson Morris.

She grew up in Coronado, California, and graduated from Coronado High School before attending Santa Barbara Community College. Melissa pursued a career as an interior designer, where she was known for her exceptional talent and eye for detail. Beyond her passion for decorating, she loved cooking, entertaining, and hosting gatherings at her home.

Melissa also worked for many years as a successful realtor and found joy in helping people find their perfect homes. In 2015, she joined the office of Coastal Results, which would later become Watson Realty Corp. Melissa treated every transaction with the care of a luxury sale and the eye of an interior decorator.

Beyond real estate, Melissa continued her work as a licensed interior decorator and played a key role in designing numerous homes and offices. She was also known as an accomplished home chef, a collector of cookbooks, a true foodie, and the ultimate happy hour queen—always knowing the best spots. She was also a loving dog mom to her Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Clancy and D’Arcy.

Melissa is survived by her devoted husband of 36 years, James M. Kavanagh, whom she married on July 9, 1988, in Coronado, California. She also leaves behind her loving family: mother, Anne Hamrick of Coronado, California; her father, Robert Morris and stepmother Rebecca Morris of Bluffton, South Carolina; her brother, Michael Morris and his wife Suzanne; her stepsister, Lauren Smeenge and her husband Steve and children Kyle and Kiera; and her nephew Tyler Morris and his wife Elycia and children Raegan and Rylee.

Melissa will be deeply missed. Her elegance, generosity, and vibrant spirit touched so many of us.

Memorial services and celebrations of Melissa’s life will be held in both Coronado, California, and Ormond Beach, Florida. Details are pending.

Memorial contributions in Melissa’s honor may be made to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance by visiting https://colorectalcancer.org/

Condolences may be shared with the Kavanagh family by visiting www.craigflaglerpalms.com.