Melissa Gaye Hartman

Melissa Gaye Hartman, entered into rest on July 11, 2020, at the age of 61 in Phoenix, Arizona after battling gall bladder cancer. Dear daughter of Arthena Gaye (Steen) Ward (deceased) and Granddaughter of Henry Calvin Steen and Ethel Mae (Coley) Steen (deceased).

When we think of Melissa, we think of her positive spirit, her intelligence, and deep love of her friendships. Her greatest professional accomplishments were her self-supported educational degrees including Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Master’s in Administration from Wichita State University and Doctoral of Business Administration in Management from University of Sarasota. She held many higher education positions including Founding Dean of Graduate School from Grand Canyon University along with Provost/Chief Operating Officer at multiple higher education universities.

On a personal level she especially enjoyed spending time with her friends with her motto of “Live, Love, and Laugh”. She enjoyed being Mom to many dogs throughout her lifetime, her love of travel, listening to music, playing the guitar, and simple things like spending time outdoors and competing in fantasy football.

Special thanks to Honor Health Oncology Research Institute and Hospice of the Valley for the kind and supportive care provided to Melissa. Her celebration of life will occur in San Diego with more details to be determined.

You will forever be remembered and will forever be in our hearts. We love you dearly Melissa!