Melissa Tyler Curry, 8, of Rockingham, peacefully passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026 at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital, Charlotte.

She was born March 9, 2018, in Pinehurst, daughter of Laura Gail Cox and Timothy Alex Curry.

With hearts full of love and sorrow, we celebrate the precious life of a sweet child whose time with us was far too short, but whose love and kindness will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.

She was a sweet, smart, and polite little girl who never met a stranger. She loved everyone and had a special way of making people smile. Whether she was happily giving a thumbs up or telling someone, "Have a nice day," she brightened every room she entered with her joyful spirit and caring heart.

She had a special love for chickens and cats and enjoyed spending time with the animals she adored. One of her greatest joys was riding in the Jeep with her dad, making memories that will be treasured forever. She also lovingly helped care for her Nanny, Peggy, showing compassion and kindness beyond her years.

Though her life was brief, the love she shared and the happiness she brought to others will never be forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy of innocence, gentleness, and unconditional love that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Melissa was preceded in death by her maternal great-grandmother, Sarah Tharpe; paternal grandfather, Wade Chavis; and uncle, George Clark, Jr.

Left to cherish Melissa’s memories are her parents, Timothy Alex Curry of Rockingham and Laura Gail Cox of Rockingham; maternal great-grandmother and guardian, Peggy Scott of Rockingham; maternal grandmother, Kimberly Cox of Rockingham; maternal grandfather, Brent Cox (Amy) of Rockingham; paternal grandmother, Melissa Ann Prevatte of Laurel Hill; paternal great-grandfather, Thomas Tharpe of Hamlet; 2 sisters; aunts and uncles, Brittany Stewart (Brian), Victoria Compton (Calvin), Mary Collins, Brandon Cox, Brandon Driggers, Christopher Driggers, Kellie Driggers, Kandida Chavis; and cousins, Brandy Collins, Dakota Collins, Victor and Walter Pankey, Kanslee Collins, and Kanon Collins.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 6:00-8:00pm at Harrington Funeral Home, Hamlet.

The funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:00am at Springhill Wesleyan Church, Hamlet, with Pastor Johnny Stogner officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.