Melissa Jean (Slavens) Adams, 58, of Walnut Grove, MO. passed away suddenly on Tuesday, April; 9, 2024, from an automobile accident. She went to her eternal rest and reward, by the grace of God’s Word, and through faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Melissa was born November 8, 1965, to Gerald L. Slavens Sr. and Evelyn Sue (Eagleburger) Slavens .  She was their youngest daughter with siblings, three older sisters and one baby brother.
Melissa was preceded in death by both parents, her paternal grandparents, Arthur and Nora Slavens and maternal grandparents: Loren and Evelyn (Elda “Boots”) Eagleburger, all of Springfield, MO. She was also preceded by many aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members on both sides and Linda Jo Slavens her cousin who was like a sister to her.
Melissa is succeeded by her fiancé, Paul David Blakemore, and two grandsons, of their home, Kaiden K. Owens and Benjamin Kolton Adams who resided with her. Her four children: Dennis Shane Willis, Michelle Ann Adams, Robert Edwards, and Benjamin C. Edwards. Her grandchildren: Laurie Edwards, Caitlyn Edwards and Robert Edwards. Three surviving sisters: Sharon and Ray Schlueter, Phyllis Slavens, Rhonda and Bill Lyman; one brother: Gerald Slavens, Jr. Also surviving are a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and other extended family who loved her dearly as well as many lifelong friends.
Melissa was a born again Christian and devout in her faith in Jesus Christ and the word of God.
She was cremated in care of Greenlawn with ashes to be dispersed according to her wishes. A visitation for family and friends is set at Greenlawn North, Springfield, MO. on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The celebration of life for Melissa will be held at a later date to allow recovery for David.