Melissa Lee Ashby

Melissa Lee Ashby

3/9/2022

Melissa Lee Ashby, 45, of DeLand FL passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at Advent Hospital Deland, FL.

Melissa was born October 6, 1976 in Burlington, Ia. She was the daughter of Nancy Lee Beardsley and Rick Ashby. Melissa graduated from Burlington Christian School in 1995. She graduated from nursing school with her RN in 2003. She began her nursing career in the Emergency Room at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. and later worked in the Operating Room at Great River Medical Center in West Burlington, IA. Most recently, Melissa worked in Advent Health in DeLand as a recovery room nurse and pre-surgery testing.

Melissa enjoyed watching Iowa Hawkeye football and going to the beach. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children, especially her grandson. Melissa loved Jesus with her whole heart and prayed endlessly for those she loved. Melissa was kind, compassionate and a loyal friend. She was loved by many.

She is survived by her mother Nancy Lee Roberts of DeLand, her step-father Jim Hines of Burlington. her daughters Janissa (Francois) Espinoza of Deland, Jianna (Eric) Ashby-Johnson of Seville, Jaisha Pratt of Burlington, and her brother, Matthew (Mary Ann) Hines and niece Emmaline of Washington, Ia. one grandson, Elijah Baber, Uncle Michael (Janet) LaVeine and countless friends.

She was preceded in death by Grandma Joyce, her father Rick Ashby, several aunts, uncles and cousins and special friends Pastor Mike Driver and Amanda Folker. We can only imagine the reunion that took place in Heaven.

The funeral will be on March 13th at Lankford Funeral Home in Deland, FL. Family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00. The service will begin at 2:00. There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date in Burlington, IA.

A memorial will be established to help cover funeral expenses.