Melissa Byrd Lunsford

Melissa Byrd Lunsford, age 56, of Gautier, and a former longtime resident of Gulfport, passed away on December 20, 2023, in Mobile, AL.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Damon Byrd; her paternal grandparents, Stanley E. Byrd, Sr and Italene Byrd; and her maternal grandparents, Mary VonKampton and George Holliman.

Melissa is survived by her husband of 30 years, Mark Lunsford; her parents, Stanley and Lena Byrd; her children, Taylor and Hannah Lunsford; her cat, “Pepper”; and a grandniece, Vivi Ratcliff.

Melissa was a graduate of Gulfport High School and attended Mississippi State University and Tulane University where she earned a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Casino Resort Management.  She enjoyed gardening, reading, and crafting.  She participated in the Cotillion Club and was of the Southern Baptist faith.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff at the University of South Alabama Medical Center for their excellent care and compassion.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family and online condolences may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com