Melissa Barksdale Howell (September 27th, 1966 – February 27th, 2025)

Melissa Ann Barksdale Howell: A Legacy of Strength, Love, and Laughter.

Melissa Ann Barksdale Howell, 58, passed away on February 27, 2025, at Ochsner Rush Hospital, surrounded by the family she cherished. Born on September 27, 1966, she lived a life rooted in love, resilience, and deep devotion to those she held dear.

Melissa was a woman of quiet strength and unwavering determination, but she was also the life of the party, always laughing, always bringing joy to those around her. Her humor was infectious, her presence electric, and her ability to turn any gathering into a celebration was unmatched. Whether cracking jokes or finding a way to lift someone's spirits, she had a way of making the hardest days feel a little lighter.

At the heart of everything she did was her faith in Christ. Melissa’s trust in the Lord guided her through life’s trials and triumphs, and she lived as a testament to His love and grace. She found purpose in serving others. Her faith was not just something she believed was something she lived, and it was evident in the kindness she showed, the encouragement she gave, and the way she loved her family and friends unconditionally.
She embraced life with both hands, whether through her dedication to her family, her commitment to education, or the countless ways she supported and uplifted those around her. Her journey was not always easy, but she met every challenge gracefully, never letting hardships define her.

She pursued her education later in life, earning her associate’s degree in 2016 before continuing at Mississippi University for Women to work toward her bachelor's. Her academic journey was a testament to her belief that it is never too late to learn, to grow, or to chase your dreams. She inspired others, especially her family, to reach higher, to work harder, and to never settle for less than they were capable of achieving.
Melissa's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She loved fiercely and without reservation, always putting the needs of others before her own. Whether offering a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or simply her steady presence, she was a source of comfort and wisdom to all who knew her.

Melissa is survived by her children, Alecia Howell, J.C Howell, Jr. (Jeanette), Leslie Walker (Gary), Jennifer Jones, Joey Pritchett (Christy), Justin Pritchett (Hailey), Josh Pritchett (Daisy), Ben Pritchett, and bonus childJoey Thigpen (Ashley); her beloved grandchildren, Laklee Howell-Hill, Ana Howell-Martinez, Chezlie Howell, Zaydee Howell, Sonnie Howell, Cody Walker, Rebecca Walker, Courtney Walker, Kaitlyn Walker, Tyler Perrigin, Gabe Jones, and Kendall King; her mother, Jennifer Barksdale; her siblings, David Barksdale (Nikki), Christie Wilson (Mike), Amy Foster (Jonathan), and Ashley Barksdale-Phillips (Brian); as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Howell, Sr., her father, Arlis Barksdale, and two angel babies.

A celebration of Melissa’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on March 8, 2025, at Northport Freewill Baptist Church, where family and friends will gather to honor the woman who gave so much to so many.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alabama Free Will Baptist Children’s Home.

Melissa’s legacy is not just in what she accomplished but in the lives she touched. Her laughter, her joy, and her boundless love will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.