Melissa Ann Mason Barber, age 54, passed away unexpectedly at Hendersonville Medical Center on November 21st, 2023. She was born in Gallatin, TN on June 11th, 1969, to parents, Paul Allen Mason and Lydia Gail Mason. She is preceded in death by her father Paul Allen Mason, and her mother Lydia Gail Mason. She is survived by her loving husband of 31 years, Dan Barber, son Keith (Kristen) Mason, daughter Katherine (Jeremy) Letterman, Shelly (Mark) Schultz, step-daughter Shannon (Dan) Zettel, and step-son Kelly Barber. She is also survived by her grandchildren Clayton Lee, Lilly Mason, Melettie Letterman, Liam Mason, Jace Mason, Shai Barber, Zack Barber, Dalton Barber, Noah Huddleston, and Ethan Huddleston. Melissa is also survived by her siblings William David Mason, Paul Mason Jr., Joey Mason, and her sister-in-law Kathy Stevens.
Melissa Ann Mason Barber, affectionately known as "MeeMee Bumblebee," has left this world unexpectedly, leaving behind cherished memories and a void that can never be filled. Melissa's passing has left her family and friends heartbroken, as she was a beacon of love and kindness in their lives.
Melissa will always be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family. She cherished every moment spent with them and eagerly engaged in conversations to catch up with loved ones. Her warm presence and ability to make others feel at ease were unparalleled. Melissa had a unique charm that could brighten even the darkest of days.
Educated at Gallatin High School, Melissa possessed a thirst for knowledge that extended beyond academics. Although she dedicated much of her time to her family and friends, Melissa remained an active member of the community. Her faith played an integral role in her life, as she grew up within the Baptist tradition. She actively participated in the Long Hollow Church and Indian Lake Peninsula Church, finding solace and spiritual fulfillment within those walls. In addition to her participation in church activities, Melissa found great joy in helping others through volunteering efforts. She held a deep-seated belief in the importance of giving back to her community and making a difference wherever she could. One of her favorite endeavors was assisting with vacation bible school programs – an opportunity that allowed her to instill values of love and compassion into young minds.
Melissa's life will be mourned by all those who had the pleasure of knowing her. The impact she made on their lives is immeasurable; she was a constant source of support and encouragement. Known for her selflessness, Melissa would give you the shirt off her back if it meant making someone else's life a little brighter.
A visitation, will take place on November 29, 2023, at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Gallatin. It will commence at 10:00 AM and conclude at noon. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at the same location. Starting at 12:00 PM, friends and family will gather to celebrate Melissa's life and legacy. Finally, Melissa's remains will find their resting place at Sumner Memorial Gardens in Gallatin. The interment ceremony is scheduled for November 29, 2023, at 1:00 PM. Surrounded by loved ones and accompanied by heartfelt farewell wishes, she will find her eternal peace among nature's embrace.
While grief hangs heavy in the hearts of those left behind, it is important to remember Melissa Ann Mason Barber for who she was—a remarkable woman who lived life with an open heart and left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. Her legacy shall live on through those who knew her best.