Melissa Ann Johnson “Mel”, age 49, of Port Richey, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, following a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Mel was born on January 12, 1977, in Detroit, Michigan, to her mother, Georgia Johnson. Throughout her life, Mel was known as the heart of her family and a source of guidance and love to all who knew her.

Mel is survived by her beloved children: Tulandra Marshall, Tashanique Cohen, Dominique Johnson, Dae’Andrea Rice, and Vonte Rice; her cherished grandchildren: Jamarr Marshall, Anya Williams, Janiyah Johnson, Derrianna Williams, Zariyah Johnson, and Derrian Williams; and her siblings, Alvin Brown and Tommie Brown.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Georgia Johnson.

Mel continuously gave her heart to the people she loved. Her kindness, resilience, and nurturing spirit will be remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Her spirit will continue to live on through the family she treasured and the countless lives she touched.

A funeral service honoring Mel’s life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Veterans Funeral Care, 830 N. Belcher Road, in Clearwater, Florida, with a reception to follow at 305 S Safford Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

To assist with memorial expenses, family and friends are encouraged to reach out to Mel’s daughter, Tashanique Cohen.