Melissa Heeren

Melissa Ruth Heeren, 51, of Danville, IL passed away at 8:39 am., with her family by her side, at her home on August 11, 2023

Melissa was born on February 22, 1972, the daughter of Philip and Gail (Everts) Bryant, in Danville, IL. She married Christopher Heeren on August 13, 2016, in Danville, IL and he survives. Also surviving are both of her parents; seven children; Kiersten (TeJuan) Jackson, of Danville, IL; Jacob (Mistie Taylor) Goble of Danville, IL; Joey Heeren, of Ft. Meyers, FL; Michael (Max) (Samira Kiwan) Heeren, of Denver, Co; Abigail (Peter Rivera) Goble of Danville, IL; Jarrod Goble of Danville, IL; and Andrea Downing of Danville, IL.; five grandchildren including Jaylin Jackson, Tristan Jackson, Xavier Patton, Beckett Goble, and Ivory Rivera; as well as three brothers, Jeffery Bryant, of Indianapolis, IN, Todd Bryant of St. Charles, MO, and Mark (Lisa) Bryant of Danville, IL. She is preceded in death by both maternal and paternal grandparents.

Growing up, Melissa regularly attended Second Church of Christ, was baptized there, and practiced her faith throughout her life. In later years, she also attended St. James Methodist Church. Melissa was blessed with a beautiful singing voice and used her 'gift from God' by singing in several bands over the years. She also volunteered her time to sing at various civic events and was regularly asked to sing at weddings as well. In addition, she also won several local talent shows. Most of all, she loved to sing and play with her children and grandchildren.

In addition, Melissa loved being outdoors enjoying nature, and loved hiking, camping, rock and crystal collecting. She was passionate about putting her hands to work, growing vegetables and establishing beautiful flower gardens.

She was co-owner of Team Good Vibes, LLC with her husband, Chris. The business began following the unidentified illness her daughter experienced as a young child. Melissa dedicated the last decade and a half investigating, researching, and pursuing a higher quality of physical, emotional, and spiritual health and well-being for herself and her immediate family, allowing others to learn alongside her, sharing in the highs and lows of her journey, by recording each step of the process. Because of her tireless efforts, an untold number of people will continue on to experience more fulfilling lives.

A Celebration of Life 'Open House' will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Kickapoo State Park from 2 p.m.- 6 p.m. at the Pavilion Center, 10906 Kickapoo Park Road, Oakwood, IL 61858

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, IL, 3940 N. Vermilion Street, Danville, IL is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials can be made in Melissa's memory to the Vermilion County Conservation District Education Center, or, the U. of I. Extension Office Gardening Program at Kennekuk County Park.

Please join Melissa's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com