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Melissa Ann Ryan Thompkins, lovingly known by many names including Missy, Little Mommom, Honey, GG, and “Short Shit”, passed away at the age of 81 at home in Pasadena, Maryland.
Missy was the beloved wife of the late Francis Joseph Thompkins Sr. She was a devoted sister to Frank Ryan (Diane), Clara Rihel (Joseph), and Jaqueline Nauton (late Bill) and was preceded in death by her brothers Donald Moon (Judi), Earl Ryan (Kathy), and Wesley Ryan.
She was a loving stepmother to Debra Fischer (late Eddie), Glenn Thompkins, and Yvonne Phelps, and was preceded in death by her stepson Francis “Fudd” Thompkins (Beverley).
Missy was a proud grandmother to Brandi Fischer Ferrell Hughes (Mark), Jake Everhart, Tara Kendall (James), Anthony Thompkins, Brittany Serio (Chris), and Amie Thompkins, and was preceded in death by her grandson Eric Fischer.
She was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy: Gabrielle, Isabelle, Leland, Kagan, JJ, Jayden, Hunter, Briella, CJ, Cheyenne, Jaelyn, James, Estelle, and Journey.
In addition to having many nieces and nephews!
Melissa dedicated over 35 years as a school bus driver transporting special needs children, a role she took great pride in. She cared deeply for the students she drove each day and was committed to making sure they were safe and supported. She retired in April of 2025, leaving behind a career that touched the lives of many families and children in her community.
Outside of work, she cherished spending time with her family, sharing stories about the old days, and she was rarely without a camera—always making sure memories were captured.
Her stories, laughter, and the many photos she took will remain treasured memories for her family, and her love will continue to live on through the generations she helped create.