Melissa Eileen (Dodge) Chastain, age 46, was born on October 5, 1970. She passed away much too soon on December 9, 2016.

She grew up in Hershey, PA, and graduated from Hershey High School. She continued her education in Texas and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Texas A&M University-Commerce in May of 1997. She met her future husband, Michael, while attending the university. They were married on September 13, 1997, at the First United Methodist Church of Rowlett, TX.

Melissa initially worked for Stein Mart in Rockwall, TX, as a loss prevention representative. In 1998, the couple moved to Dallas, TX, and she began a successful career with State Farm Insurance as a home claims adjuster. She worked there for 11 1/2 years.

Her two precious treasures, for whom she lived each day, were Garrett born in 2000 and Ryan born in 2002. She was truly a loving and committed mother to Garrett and Ryan. She was a caring and generous friend who often put others' welfare ahead of her own. She was a devoted volunteer for many worthy causes throughout the Wylie community.

Melissa loved her Philadelphia Eagles. E A G L E S ... GO EAGLES!!!!

She was predeceased by her father, Robert Dodge, of Hershey, PA, who passed away in 2009.

Melissa is survived by her husband, Michael Chastain, and children, Garrett and Ryan Chastain, of Wylie, TX; mother and step-father, Marge and George Kauffman, of Royse City, TX; brother, Tony Dodge, of Royse City, TX; and nephew, Patrick Dodge, of Burleson, TX.

Other surviving family members are her mother-in-law, Mrs. Paula Elliott, and father-in-law, Dr. Charles Elliott, of Commerce, TX; brother-in-law, Larry Chastain, and his children, Labe', Alexia, and Abraham of Commerce, TX, and Baley Chastain, of Arlington, TX.

She will be deeply missed by family and friends.

"Rest in Peace, my Love."

A celebration of Melissa's life will be held at the Allen Funeral Home in Wylie, TX, at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 19, with Reverend Juan Carlos Marin, Celebrant.