Melissa was a loving wife, mother, sister, friend, and most of all wonderful, loving Mimi. She enjoyed going camping with family and friends, going fishing with her husband, Lynn, in his new boat, browsing the thrift stores, and was very passionate about anything that involved her spending time with her granddaughters, who were her world. She was an avid member of St. George’s Episcopal Church since 1973 where she and husband, Lynn (Ray) were married. Lynn, father-in-law, Raymond, and daughter, Heather, served as Eucharistict Ministers, and participated in many events put on by the church, especially Soup Days and they were in charge of the annual Mardi Gras cookouts. Back in the day they were in charge of ECY (Episcopal Christian Youth) program, Melissa was a member of the ECW (Episcopal Christian Women) and they were avid annual participants with the Episcopal Cursillo events.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray “Lynn” Togersen and daughter, Jennifer Lynn Togersen of Bossier City, La., mother Evelyn Foreman Wright Prescott of Middlesex, Pa., father Arthur James Wright of Waynesburg, Pa., step-father James F. Prescott of Shreveport, La., and several Aunts and Uncles of Pa.
Melissa is survived by her daughter, Heather Togersen McKenzie (Malcolm) of Farmersville, Tx; Louisiana; sister, Gretchen Reeder of Clarksville, AR, precious granddaughters, Jaelynn and Madison Wimmer of Farmersville Tx; nephews, Jeshua Reeder (Angie) of Clarksville, AR and Caleb Reeder of Dover, AR; great nephews, Briley and Carsten Reeder of Clarksville, AR; honorary daughter, Deniece Irby Cane (Don) of Shreveport, honorary granddaughters, Ceanna and Deanna Cain, Montana Powell, and Danika “Dani” Loyd; and many wonderful extended family and friends including Diane and Shannon May, Kathy Powell, and Karen McDonald.
Melissa’s family would like to thank Father Jamie Flowers (St. Georges), the Dr ’s and Nurses at WKP Covid Unit and her Dr.’s and Nurses at P.A.M. Specialty Hospital of WKN, especially Dr. Desai (Critical Care), Dr. Morrison (Pulmonologist), very special nurses Stephanie, Sharon, Andrew, and Lakisha (charge nurse), as well at the RT’s who went over and beyond and were so caring and compassionate with Melissa and her daughter. Also everyone who loved and knew her has sent countless prayers, love and support through calls, emails, and text to the family.
Melissa was strong and fought hard through all of this and was determined to get through this for her granddaughters and was ready to move to Texas to be with them and daughter, Heather. She definitely did not go without a fight but went peacefully with daughter Heather and sister Gretchen both at her side.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. George's Episcopal Church (1959 Airline Dr. Bossier City, La. 71112) in honor of Melissa.
Melissa will be cremated but due to Covid-19, there will be a small, private visitation per family invite. A special service will be held for Melissa and Lynn at St. Georges. Dates and times will be pending due to COVID-19.
