In Loving Memory of Melissa “Missy” Jane Wilcox

Melissa “Missy” Jane Wilcox, 64, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on November 9, 1960, in Princeton, New Jersey, she was a devoted retired Registered Nurse from New Lisbon Developmental Center.

Melissa was exuberant and enthusiastic about life. She dedicated her time to nursing, volunteering, and raising her children, whom she loved dearly. She inspired everyone around her with her unwavering kindness, resilience, and infectious energy. Her smile could light up a room, and her presence brought comfort to those who knew her.

One of her proudest accomplishments was strongly and successfully advocating with her sister, Laurie, to get legislators to pass the New Jersey Medical Aid in Dying for the Terminally Ill Act, which allowed patients with terminal conditions to make compassionate end-of-life decisions. This was a testament to Melissa’s determination, passion, and belief in helping others live and die with dignity.

In addition to this, Melissa embraced life to the fullest, including a memorable year spent in New Orleans. She moved to the French Quarter, where she could attend Saints games and fully immerse herself in the vibrant culture she loved. She also defied the odds by beating a terminal cancer diagnosis, living ten more wonderful years without it ever returning.

As a nurse, mother, and grandmother, she touched countless lives. Whether attending her grandsons’ athletic games, swimming in the pool, bird watching, volunteering at the Hopewell Quarry, or serving as a baby cuddler at the NICU, she gave of herself freely and with determination. She cherished her role as "Gammie" to her grandsons Jackson and Austin, a title that filled her heart with pride and joy.

She is survived by her children, Jessica Purdy and Richard Purdy, Tia “Mariah” Turner, and Thomas Pollack; her sister Laurie Wilcox; her brother-in-law Jimmy Bracher; her grandsons Jackson Purdy and Austin Purdy; and her best friend Tina Bable. They will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her mother, Jeane Knock Watts; her father, Theodore Wilcox; her stepfather, Tom Watts; and her son, Charley Pollack.

A graveside service for Melissa will be held 11 AM Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Highland Cemetery , 95 Hopewell Road

Pennington, New Jersey. Flowers can be sent to Wilson Apple Funeral Home in Pennington, New Jersey no later that Tuesday December 3,  9:30 AM

Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Melissa embodied the sentiment captured in Frank Sinatra’s My Way: “I did it my way.” She lived her life with authenticity, courage, and determination, leaving a legacy of resilience and love.

We find comfort in knowing she is at peace and reunited with her parents and son.

Rest in peace, Missy. You will never be forgotten.

 Arrangements are under the direction of Wilson-Apple Funeral Home, 2560 Pennington Road, Pennington, NJ 08534