Melissa A. Foutz
On Wednesday, April 31, 2025, at 3:00 PM, Melissa "Missy" A. Foutz—a beautiful person, a beautiful mind, and a beautiful soul—left this earth after a brave battle with cancer. She was 56.
Melissa was born on May 9, 1968, in Roanoke, Virginia. A graduate of Staunton River High School, she ranked in the top ten of her class and was inducted into the National Honor Society. She continued her education at Virginia Western Community College, where she earned Associate degrees in General Studies and Business Administration.
Melissa worked as a florist for a short time. Together with her father, she ran a seasonal greenhouse—Melissa and her dad often gave away more flowers and plants than they sold.
Known for her wit, wisdom, and warmth, Melissa was a gifted conversationalist, always engaged in the world around her. Whether discussing politics, current events, or popular culture, she did so with insight and humor—often over a cup of coffee or an adult beverage.
Her love of music was deep and eclectic, with favorites that included R.E.M., The Beatles, The Feelies, The Smithereens, Guadalcanal Diary, Jason & the Scorchers, Dwight Yoakam, Lyle Lovett, Steve Earle, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Alison Krauss, Tom Petty, The Old 97's, The Derailers, Scott Miller & the Commonwealth and many more....
Melissa was also an avid film lover, particularly fond of classic cinema - especially Jimmy Stewart. Films like Vertigo, Rear Window, It's a Wonderful Life, and Bell, Book and Candle were her favorite, amongst many other films.
Her memory was nothing short of extraordinary—she never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or special moment. She had a natural talent for pop culture trivia and would have been a formidable Jeopardy! contestant, especially in categories covering current events and entertainment.
In her spare time, Melissa passionately researched genealogy, spending countless hours uncovering stories, connections, and legacies that might otherwise have been lost. Her research helped reconnect long-lost relatives and even led to the discovery of new family members.
Melissa was also a passionate advocate for her friends and family, often researching and reading medical journals and health resources to help loved ones make informed decisions about their healthcare. Her guidance, support, and tireless efforts brought clarity and comfort to those making medical decisions that could be quite difficult.
Melissa is survived by her husband, Bill Crews; her "sister-friend", Vikki Minter; and her parents, Dan and Joyce Foutz. She also leaves behind a large extended family—Foutz, Richards, Clasbey, Beagley, Alvarina, Crews, Hendrickson, Thornhill, Gadd—and countless awesome friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and spirit.
Heartfelt thanks go out to: Vikki Minter, Brian Britten, Norman & Phyllis Richards, Timmy & Dana Shepherd, Steven & Jennifer Morris, Scott & Susan Harris, Dean & Victoria Ferguson, Scott Hendrickson, Brett Reynolds, Rick Godley, Mike Hudson, Ben Watts and Marie Bell. Your love, concern and support meant the world.
From Bill:
Sweetheart!!! My life is devastated, my heart is crushed, but I'm so blessed and honored to have had you in my life for 35 years. I would give anything to have more with my sweet Melissa... Godspeed, Missy.
A celebration of Melissa's life will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road. In her memory, plant a flower, play your favorite song, watch a movie or simply share a heartfelt conversation. She would have loved that.
