Melissa Ann Short

Melissa Ann Short (Thompson), age 51, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona surrounded by family. She was born November 18, 1974, in Kremmling, Colorado.

Melissa moved to Coldwater, Kansas during elementary school. A graduate of Coldwater High School in 1993, Melissa continued to pursue her passion for helping others. Throughout her life she worked as a paraeducator, CNA and aesthetician. Even while battling metastatic cancer she was still determined to help others by completing her Bachelor's of Science degree in Nursing at the Arizona College of Nursing in 2025, a testament to her dedication and resilience.

Melissa was known for her vibrant personality—loud, fun-loving, and always ready to lend a hand. Her zest for life was evident in everything she did. She lived in many different places over the years but she fell in love with Arizona. She was an avid lover of the sunshine and outdoors and stayed active through hiking, biking, working out and hanging out by the pool. But above all else, Melissa cherished time spent with her children.

She is lovingly remembered by her parents Shannon Thompson and Wayne and Susie Thompson; her daughters Shelby Richard (Dalton) and Hadynn Short (Darwin); her son Hunter Short; her sister Ashley Frazier (Rusty); her brother Tyler Thompson (Rachel); niece Harper; nephews Xavier, Deacon, and Hudson; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Melissa was preceded in death by her sister Megan and grandparents Richard and Paula King and James and Louise Thompson.

Cremation has taken place at Avenidas Cremation and Burial in Tucson, AZ. A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.

May Melissa’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.