Melissa Ellers' Obituary
Melissa "Missy" Ellers, 62, passed from this life on April 10, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, after a courageous battle with cancer. She fought her illness like a warrior, displaying the same strength and determination that defined her life.
She was born on August 5, 1963, in Hayward, California, to her father Santos and mother Joyce, before moving to Tulsa as a child. She later attended the University of Oklahoma for two years before embarking on a career as a Credit Analyst with Hilti, where she served for many years and during this time, she met her husband of 40 years while working with him over the phone. After marriage, she put her career on hold to raise her family and volunteered for school activities, room mother, team Mom for baseball and Cub Scout adventures. Her loyalty to her family was unwavering, and she was always their rock. This was one of her greatest pleasures and most precious possession.
In later years, Melissa developed a green thumb and the love of gardening, growing crops of vegetables as well as her dahlias, hydrangeas and stargazer lilies. She also enjoyed crafting, painting, cooking, which included her famous lasagna and secret Easter bread, staying active and liked a good political discussion around the dinner table. Whether she was going on walks, tending to her plants, or creating something beautiful with her hands, Melissa found happiness in the simple, meaningful moments of everyday life.
Her faith was a cornerstone of who she was. Melissa was strong in her devotion to God, and when she was unable to attend church in person, she faithfully watched Mass on the internet. Her quiet strength, gentle heart, and unwavering belief were evident to all who knew her.
Above all, Melissa cherished her family. Time spent with them—sharing meals, conversations, laughter, and love—was her greatest joy. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, and her presence brought warmth and comfort wherever she went.
Melissa is survived by her husband, Ken Ellers; her sons, Anthony Ellers and Chris Ellers; her father, Santos Sabala, Sr.; her sister, Joann Sabala; aunts Fanny and Loisa; mother-in-law Betty; sister-in-law Elaine; niece Erica as well as many cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Sabala, and her brother, Santos Sabala, Jr.
A memorial service to honor Melissa’s life will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Holy Family Cathedral.
Melissa will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her creativity, her faith, and the love she poured into her family. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
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