Melissa Godby

Melissa D. Godby, age 46, of Somerset, Kentucky, passed peacefully to the other side on Friday, June 20th, 2025, at Hospice of Lake Cumberland. May her spirit rest easily in the arms of God’ eternal grace, and may her family be surrounded by comfort, strength, and blessing in the days to come.
Born on December 13, 1978, Melissa was the cherished daughter of Marlene Bullock Godby and the late Edward Godby. From an early age, she embodied a spirited, determined nature—full of energy and creativity. She channeled that fire into gymnastics, where her strength and grace made her a skillful and passionate athlete. Melissa also had a deep appreciation for music, which became a lifelong companion—offering her both escape and expression, and forging deep connections with those around her.
Life was not without its hardships, and Melissa faced many challenges along the way. Yet through it all, she carried within her a vibrant heart and an enduring sense of humor. Her resilience, in both quiet and bold ways, was a defining thread of her story—woven through her love for her family, her faith, and the fullness with which she lived.
Melissa was known for her vibrant, colorful personality—a soul who could evoke full-range feelings of bold laughter to tender compassion. She truly was the life of the party, lighting up every room she entered with her wild authenticity.
As a woman of faith, Melissa attended Oak Hill Baptist Church, where she nurtured not only her spiritual life but also meaningful connections within her community. Her belief in God’s presence offered her comfort, direction, and strength through life’s many seasons. At Oak Hill, she found belonging among friends, a place to sing and worship freely, and a foundation of faith that supported her through both joy and sorrow.
She is preceded in death by her father, Edward Godby; her brother, Edward Godby, Jr.; and her fiancé, Brett Smalley. She is survived by her devoted mother, Marlene Godby, who was her lifelong caregiver, supporter and friend.
Melissa leaves behind a beautiful legacy by way of her children: her elder daughter, Amber Rehg, with fiancé Cameron Nave, of Nancy, KY, and her young son, James Baker, also of Nancy. Echoes of their mother’s depth and vitality live on—revelealed in Amber’s steady presence and thoughtful care, and in James’s bright spirit and curious heart. Together, they will endure and carry forward the love, strength, and colorful essence of the home and history they share.
Melissa’s light, laughter, and loving spirit will be deeply missed, but her presence will continue to live on in the hearts and stories of all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM at Southern Oaks Funeral Home. Funeral Services initiate at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Southern Oaks Funeral Home, with Brother Alan Fisher officiating, and burial will follow at Lakeside Memorial Gardens.