Obituary of Melissa Jean Palma

Melissa Jean Palma, age 49, born August 17th, 1973 passed away peacefully on September 5th 2022. Her final days were spent surrounded by her family.

After graduating from the College of Education at the University of Arizona, Melissa worked for 23 years as a special education teacher at Harelson Elementary in the Amphitheater School District. She loved her students and the impact she had upon them was great. She was truly grateful for all the friendships she formed during her time teaching.

Melissa was unwavering in the optimism and courage in which she navigated her journey with cancer. Our time together as a family post diagnosis only served to reinforce the idea of making the most with the ones that we love.

While Melissa’s life might seem too short to many, those who were touched by her presence can understand that the quality of life far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. Her sweet welcoming smile, unbounding kindness and positive outlook on life are all attributes that helped make her the beautiful soul that she was.

Melissa is survived by her loving husband, Victor and their four children; Hailey, Taylor, Tristan and Brooklyn; her mother Carol and her three siblings Marc, Steve and Sabrina.

A Celebration of Life for Melissa will be held at Casas Adobes Church on Saturday the 14th, 2023 at 3:00pm. The address is as follows: 10801 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85742 . All are welcome to join us in the recognition of her life. We ask if possible that those attending choose to wear shades of green instead of the traditional black. Green was Melissa’s favorite color.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted at the Celebration of Life, which will be given to charity in hopes of helping others battling Colon Cancer.