Melissa Ann (Raines) Johnston

Melissa Ann Johnston passed away on Thursday, the 27th day of March 2025, at her home in Elkhart, Texas, at the age of 62.  She was born on the 18th day of August 1962 in Houston, Texas to parents Aubra Raines and Mable Gilmore Raines.

Melissa worked in accounting before retiring, a career that she greatly enjoyed.  Outside of work, Melissa's interests were as vibrant as her personality. She loved dancing and the freedom it gave her to express herself. Riding motorcycles was another passion, providing her with a sense of adventure and the wind in her hair. Her competitive spirit shone through in cookoffs, where she enjoyed the camaraderie and the challenge. Melissa's outgoing personality meant she was always busy, engaging in activities that brought joy to her life and to those around her.

Shopping was more than a pastime for Melissa; it was an opportunity to connect with friends and indulge in the simple pleasures of life. Above all, her love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was paramount. She cherished every moment spent with them, imparting wisdom and laughter in equal measure.

Melissa is preceded in death by her parents and fiancé Rodney Ballew.

Melissa's legacy is one of joy and an enduring spirit of love. Her memory will be treasured and her presence deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her including her daughter, Tonya Baker and husband Gary of Elkhart, Texas; son, Rodney Johnston and wife Hailly of Houston, Texas; sisters, Glenda Peacock and husband Dan of Elkhart, Texas, and Sandra Scroggs of Alexandria, Louisiana.  She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren Savannah Waldrop, Brooke Pharis, Cadyn Green, Kamryn Baker, Bentley Johnston, Katlyn Betterton, Kaigan Baker, Shane Baker, Wyatt Baker; and her eight great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A celebration of her life will be celebrated at Strong Memorial Cemetery on Sunday, the 6th day of April 2025 at three o’clock in the afternoon.  Bro. Ricky Baker will be officiating the service.

Graveside and cremation services for Melissa Ann Johnston are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.

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