Melissa Lynn Hays-Mitchell, 48, left our world unexpectedly on Dec 21, 2021.

Melissa was born on July 4, 1973, to James Hays and Joann Sipe Hays in Fort Scott, Kansas.

She graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1991, and continued her education at Pittsburg State University, earning her bachelor’s degree in social work.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents.

Melissa’s beloved spouse, Dean Zimmerman also left our world on December 21, 2021. Continued prayers for both families are appreciated.

She was previously married to Jerald Mitchell (Fort Scott) for 18 years, they raised three children together. Dayton, Dawson, and Katelynn Mitchell were always their mother’s world. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers while they navigate through this difficult time.

Left behind are her three children: Dayton Hays (Jessica Powers) Mitchell, Dawson James Mitchell, and Katelynn (Taylor Harrison) Mitchell.  She also leaves behind a brother Jason Hays, and sister Sheila Hixon (Robert Hixon).

Besides her own children, Melissa’s pride and joy lay with her grandchildren. This Mimi never missed a beat and will be missed by them all: Bryant, Bentley, Kinsley, Hayden, Brayden, Kase, and Dylynn. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

As a caring mother, wife, and grandmother, Melissa never knew a stranger and lived on her own terms. Her funny wit, intelligent comments, and unique personality are what those who knew her will miss the most. She was one of a kind, unapologetically being herself when it came to what she believed in.

A celebration of Melissa’s life will be at Buck Run Community Center on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at noon. Please feel free to stop by and share your memories of Melissa with her family and close friends.