Mrs. Melissa Nicole Perry-Pruitt (née Derrickson), 29, of Havelock, N.C., was unexpectedly called home to her eternal glory and to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, early Saturday morning, June 27, 2026.
Melissa was born in Salisbury, Md., on July 15, 1996, to her loving parents, Gannon and Tanya Derrickson. She was the love of their lives and the joy of their days.
Melissa met her husband, Austin Perry-Pruitt, while in high school. They became each other’s best friend and knew their lives were meant to be shared. Austin was the love of her life.
After high school graduation, Melissa attended Virginia Commonwealth University while Austin served his country as a U.S. Marine. Melissa knew her life was meant to be supporting her husband, and they married after she completed one year of study. The couple moved to Havelock, where Austin served our country and Melissa began the work God called her to do.
She did not work in a brick-and-mortar building, but she worked tirelessly, serving the Lord in each relationship she built and sharing His perfect love in all ways to everyone she met. Melissa’s circle of friends from childhood to adulthood was cultivated with love and care. Each heart she touched knew how special it was to have her in their lives.
She served her church, Liberty Church, in Havelock, on the Prayer Team and Kids’ Ministry. She also loved her Bible Study ladies and VBS team. She loved to share about her creative ideas for VBS and her adventures with her Bible Study ladies. Austin was her biggest supporter in all her creative pursuits and provided the willing hands to help get the job done.
Melissa is survived by her loving husband, Austin Perry-Pruitt; her devoted parents, Gannon and Tanya Derrickson; and many beloved family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were forever changed by knowing her.
Melissa’s greatest passion in life was her relationship with Jesus Christ. Her faith was the foundation of everything she did. She boldly shared the goodness of God to everyone she encountered. Her compassionate heart, contagious smile, and unwavering kindness left an unforgettable impact on countless lives. Though her time on Earth was brief, the legacy of faith, love, and compassion she leaves behind will continue to inspire all who knew her.
While her family grieves the tremendous loss of her earthly presence, they find peace and comfort in God’s promise that Melissa is now rejoicing in heaven. Her unwavering faith assures those who loved her that this farewell is only temporary, and they look forward to the day they will be reunited in the presence of the Lord.
A celebration of life was held on Thursday, July 2, at 2 p.m. at Union Baptist Church in Chincoteague. Family and friends were invited to remain afterward for a time of fellowship and remembrance in the church activities building.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers, messages of love, and acts of kindness shown as Melissa’s loved ones navigate this profound loss.
“Well done, good and faithful servant … Enter into the joy of your Lord.” Matthew 25:23
“For everyone who has passed before me, I’ll see you in heaven.”
Services were entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home, Inc., on Chincoteague Island.
Donations may be made to Union Baptist Church, 6365 Church St., Chincoteague, VA 23336; or Liberty Church, 81 Shepard St., Havelock, NC 28532.
