of Oak Ridge, TN

October 19, 1957 - April 25, 2022

Melissa Ann (Seay) Ekman Hodsdon, 64, of Oak Ridge, TN, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2022 at her home. She was born on October 19, 1957, to Odas and Nana Lou Seay in Little Rock, AR. Melissa graduated from Trumann High School with honors in 1976 and then from Lyon College in 1980 with a degree in Healthcare Administration. She had her beloved daughter, Diana Ekman in 1987 and married her long-term partner, Colin Hodsdon on October 23, 2017.

Melissa worked in the banking industry for over 20 years, managing award winning banks in Arkansas, Alabama and Tennessee. She enjoyed the challenge of her work, especially being able to go above and beyond to support both her employees and customers. Melissa retired in 2009 and moved to Oak Ridge in 2014. She loved all of the green space around the city and walked by the river near her home everyday with her dog Bo.

Melissa was a lifelong music lover and crafter. She enjoyed sewing, needlepoint, painting and trying new crafts of all kinds. Melissa was an avid puzzler, trying never to do the same puzzle twice. She loved trying new recipes and remaking old favorite dishes. Most of all she loved being a good friend, a devoted daughter, sister and mother.

Melissa was originally diagnosed with cancer in 2008 and spent many years in remission before having a recurrence in 2016. She worked hard everyday to live each day to the fullest and see the beauty in every day.
She was preceded in death by her parents.

Melissa is survived by her husband, Colin Hodsdon; daughter, Diana Ekman; siblings, Judy (Seay) Propes of Cherry Valley, Brian and Brad Seay of Trumann; and many loved family members.

A memorial service will be Friday, June 3, 2022, 1:00 pm at Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home
1900 West Washington Ave.
Jonesboro, AR  72401
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com