Melissa Rae Solano

April 16, 1961 – September 24, 2025

Melissa Rae Solano, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on September 24, 2025, at the age of 64. Born on April 16, 1961, in Dearborn, Michigan, Melissa lived a life full of warmth, creativity, laughter, and love.Melissa spent much of her life in the service industry, where her vibrant personality and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She had an incredible ability to connect with people, always making those around her feel seen and appreciated. Her sharp wit, quick humor, and famously sassy sarcasm made her unforgettable.An extraordinarily talented artist, Melissa found joy in expressing herself creatively. Her art, like her spirit, was bold, colorful, and full of life. She had a unique way of seeing the world—one that was both imaginative and deeply human.Melissa was also a gifted storyteller. Her stories were legendary—sometimes meandering, often unpredictable, but always entertaining. Whether it was a heartfelt memory or a wildly exaggerated tale, Melissa could captivate any audience with her words.

She is survived by her loving husband, Anthony Solano; her children, Nicholas Mitchell , daughter-in law Jill Crooks, Crystal Mitchell, son -in -law Chris Gruening, and her two “favorite” children, Anthony and Sadie Solano. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Andrea Johnson, mother -in- law Hilaria Seledon (Lala), grand- childeren; Dillon, Jaxon and Piper, and many friends and extended family members who loved her deeply.

Melissa was preceded in death by her mother, Hazel Anning; her father, Russ Mead; and her sisters, Cindy Kulikowski and Vicky Maxwell

Melissa’s spark, humor, and heart will be profoundly missed but forever remembered. Her legacy lives on in the laughter she brought, the stories she told, the art she created, and the love she gave so freely.

Memorial contributions to honor Melissa Rae's life may be made to American Cancer Society