Melissa Marie Talley (nee Simon)

Melissa Marie Talley, beloved mother of Tim (Briana) and Brian, grandmother of six, daughter of Mary Jo (Wenstrup) Simon, sister of Amy (Chris) White and Kris (Michelle) Simon, and friend to many, died after a courageous fight with breast cancer on January 5, 2025. Her strong Catholic Faith and trust in Our Lord Jesus Christ was central in her life and throughout her cancer battle. 

Some of the things Melissa enjoyed most were watching old movies and musicals, going out to eat, boating, watching waves crash on the beach during Florida sunsets, supporting active and former members of the US military, researching Wenstrup family genealogy, and seeing her grandchildren.

Melissa spent most of her adult life working as a full-time mom and homeschooling educator for her children. In her later years, she enjoyed working as a sacristan for her church and organizer of the Wenstrup Fest family reunion. She also worked a number of significant roles for the long-running St. John Passion Play, including head of the costume and publicity departments and archive support. As with all the things in life that were important to her, she diligently poured her heart and soul into her work.

Christmas was the time of year Melissa cherished most. Many of her sons’ fondest memories include her tireless efforts to make a warm and beautifully ornamented home in preparation for the arrival of the Infant King. It was a blessing to her and her family to have been able to celebrate one last Christmas before her death.

Melissa strongly exemplified our call to bring Christ to others in her life and leaves behind a legacy of faith, devotion, and kindness. All are welcome to attend the 10:30 AM funeral Mass on Saturday January 11, 2025 at Sacred Heart Church 2733 Massachusetts, Camp Washington 45225. Flower donations can be sent to Hodapp Funeral Home 6041 Hamilton Ave, College Hill 45224 by Friday at 3 PM. 

Melissa will be dearly missed by her family and friends as she joins her beloved father, Edward Simon. One of her dying wishes was for the faithful to pray for the canonization of Servant of God Fr. Vincent Capadonno. The family humbly asks all to please recall this intention when praying for the repose of her soul. May she know perfect and eternal happiness, singing the eternal hymn of praise. Requiescat in pace. Condolences at hodappfuneralhome.com