Melissa Jo Buckles Michaud, born on June 29, 1972, entered the loving arms of Jesus on July 21, 2026, surrounded by her devoted children and family. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing she is at peace with her Savior and that this is not goodbye—it is simply, as Melissa would always say, "See ya later."

Melissa is lovingly survived by her children, Mackenzie House and Noah House; her cherished granddaughters, Marley and Harper House; her parents, Pamela and Richard Downing and Del and Karen Buckles; her beloved sister, Heather (Aaron) Krueger; her cherished brother, Brandon (Julie) Buckles; her grandfather, Stanley Buckles; and many beloved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Steven Michaud; her grandparents, Colleen and William Linker and Jacque Buckles; her aunt, Connie D'Hooge; and her cousins, Gary Hood, Mac Buckles, and Amanda Alemond.

Melissa had a heart that seemed to have room for everyone. She had an incredible gift for making people smile, and one of her favorite sayings perfectly reflected the way she lived: "What are you going to do? Smile. Because when you smile, it makes other people smile." She believed kindness was contagious and shared it freely with everyone she met.

If you knew Melissa, you knew she loved to talk on the phone. A day without hearing from her was enough to make you wonder if everything was okay. She treasured conversations, laughter, and staying connected with the people she loved. She also found joy in singing, dancing, spending time with her beloved dog Teddy, browsing the aisles of Dollar Tree, and creating memories with her family.

Of all the roles Melissa held throughout her life, the ones she treasured most were being a wife and a mother. Those were the years that brought her the greatest happiness. She poured her heart into raising her children, never missing a school event, proudly chaperoning field trips, cheering from the sidelines at little league and softball games, attending Girl Scout and Boy Scout meetings, and showing up for every milestone—big or small. Her children always knew she would be there.

Like many people, Melissa faced struggles throughout her life, yet those who knew her best also knew her capacity for love, laughter, and finding joy in life's simple moments. Today, we choose to remember the smiles she shared, the traditions she created, the unwavering love she had for her family, and the countless ways she made others feel seen and loved.

While our hearts ache in her absence, our faith gives us hope. We find peace knowing Melissa is embraced by the grace and love of her Heavenly Father, reunited with those who have gone before her, and free from every burden. We look forward to the day we will see her again.

Until then, we'll carry her love with us, keep her traditions alive, remember to smile, and honor her the way she would have wanted.

After all, as Melissa always reminded us... we don't say goodbye.

See ya later.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on her memory page at www.mvcremation.com.