WEST BROOKFIELD:  Melissa A. Avedian, 41, of West Brookfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, after a long-term illness.  Melissa leaves behind her beloved children, Owen Smith and his partner, Bailey, and their daughter, Mia, all of West Brookfield, and Lillian Orozco of Worcester. She is also survived by her siblings: Lynn Avedian of Leicester; Anthony Avedian and his wife, Shannon, of Auburn; and Meaghan Runyon and her husband, Matthew, of Spencer. She additionally leaves several nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Born in Worcester and raised in Spencer, Melissa was a proud graduate of David Prouty High School. During her illness, she lived with her parents, Susan and Robert Cote, whose loving care and support provided comfort for both Melissa and her children.  Melissa attended college while working at Anna Maria College, where she served as Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions before taking a leave of absence due to her health. Later, she followed her calling to help others as a hospice home health aide with Laura's Guardian Angels, providing compassionate care to those in need.  Melissa had a deep love for animals, especially her dogs. Her kindness and compassion were evident in all aspects of her life, whether helping a turtle safely cross the road or offering encouragement to someone facing difficult circumstances. A talented artist and writer, she expressed her creativity through beautiful drawings, paintings, and written works.  She also possessed a strong spiritual faith and found comfort in healing stones and crystals. Melissa was known for giving guardian angels to fellow dialysis patients as reminders that they were loved and never alone. Through the hands she held, the hugs she shared, and the hope she inspired, Melissa touched countless lives. Her quick wit, sense of humor, and unique perspective on life brought smiles to many faces and left lasting memories.  To know and love Melissa was truly an honor and a blessing, a sentiment echoed by the many people who accompanied her throughout her journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Diabetes Foundation, the National Kidney Foundation, or Second Chance Animal Rescue. Those wishing to honor Melissa's memory may also consider planting a tree in her honor.