Melissa Lynn Dickerson

Melissa Lynn Dickerson, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, niece, and teacher, unexpectedly passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 42. She will be remembered for her bright spirit, her quick humor, and the deep love she had for her family, her students, and the ocean.

Melissa was born on September 29, 1983, one month overdue, to Michael LeRoy Dickerson and Barbara Neibaur Dickerson. As the youngest of four children, she brought laughter, a little chaos and energy into her family from the very beginning.

She had a lifelong love of the ocean and was fascinated by sea life. Turtles, octopuses, and sharks were her favorites. True to her playful nature, she often joked that she wanted to be “shark food” when she died, a reflection of her unique humor and her deep connection to the sea. She had an amazing sense of humor and loved to make people laugh, often turning even ordinary moments into something joyful and memorable. She loved quoting movies and could find a quote for any occasion.

Melissa attended Hollow Hills Elementary School, Sinaloa Middle School, and graduated from Royal High School in 2001. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Communication and a minor in History from the University of Utah. After graduating, she began substitute teaching. Discovering how much she loved working with young children, she returned to school to study Education at California Lutheran University, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education with an emphasis in Deaf and Hard of Hearing. She taught at Buttercup Preschool for five years. She formed strong bonds with her students and their families, and she took great pride in helping children learn and grow.

Melissa is survived by her parents, Michael and Barbara Dickerson; her siblings, Angie Dickerson Schuyler (Jason), Aimee Dickerson Harper (Rich), and Mike Dickerson (Rachel); and the nieces and nephews she loved so dearly: Lexi, Kayla, and Matt Harper, Jax, Bella, and Julianna Schuyler; and Meela and Danny Dickerson. She was a proud and devoted aunt who cherished every visit, every laugh, and every milestone in their lives.

A celebration of Melissa’s life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at 480 Sinaloa Road in Simi Valley, California, 93065. All who wish to celebrate her life are welcome to attend. Melissa’s kindness, humor, and compassion left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

Zoom link for the Celebration of Life Service

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://zoom.us/j/94840828662