Melissa Lynn Hilton Stapleton, October 9, 1975 – April 16, 2026

Melissa, 50, left her earthly body on April 16, 2026. Melissa was known in our family as the one who was always ready for anything. She had a way of making everyone laugh and never hesitated to speak her mind.

Though she faced her share of struggles in life, Melissa loved her children and her family in the best way she knew how. She will be fondly remembered for bringing her famous Kool-Aid pies and sawdust salad to family gatherings, as well as for her love of cozy pajamas and a good purse.

Melissa had a playful spirit and found joy in teasing those who could appreciate her humor.

We take comfort in our faith, believing that God called her home when she was ready. We also find peace in imagining her being welcomed with open arms by her mother, Myrtle Ruth Hilton, and reunited with her first-born baby, Keith.

Those that are deeply saddened that continue to walk this earthly journey are her Father, Frank (Dorothy) Hilton of Pennington Gap, Virginia.

Her three precious children:

James Stapleton and Partner, Samantha of Jonesville VA.

Austin Stapleton of Jonesville VA

Cede Surgener and husband Ethan of Pennington Gap VA.

She so loved her beautiful grandchildren:

Skylnn Stapleton of Sebastian, FL and Ryker Stapleton of Jonesville, VA.

She is also survived by her loving siblings Sharon Penley and husband Randy of Jonesville, VA, Darlene Gibson and husband Tom of Stickleyville, VA and Terry Hilton and wife Jennifer of Woodway, VA along with a host of many nieces, great nieces, nephews and great nephews.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Pennington Gap Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm with Pastor John Raeside officiating.

A committal service will follow at Powell Valley Cemetery. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Melissa Lynn Hilton Stapleton and her family are in the care of Jones-Pennington Gap Funeral Home.