Melissa Anne Rocksvold-Nelson

Obituary for Melissa Anne Rocksvold-NelsonMay 2, 1969 – September 13, 2025Melissa Anne Rocksvold-Nelson returned to her Heavenly Father on September 13, 2025, at the age of 56. She was born on May 2, 1969, in Paradise, California, to Orion Douglas Memmott and Jill Irene Scott Memmott. The youngest daughter, and third of four children, Melissa grew up with her brothers Scott Douglas Memmott, Jonathan “Jonny” Ladd Memmott, and David Perry Memmott.Delivered by Dr. Lee Fillerup at Feather River Hospital, Melissa’s arrival was anticipated with love and joy. Her father famously wagered with Dr. Fillerup that she would be a girl, and he was right. From the moment she was born, Melissa was cherished as the family’s princess.Melissa was a bright, energetic child who walked and talked early, filling her family’s lives with laughter, love, and delight. She grew up in Willows, California, attending Willows Elementary, Middle, and High School before continuing her education at Ricks College (now BYU–Idaho). Melissa was active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She and her mother, Jill, shared a special bond, often dressing in matching handmade outfits sewn by Jill.After college, Melissa lived a full life, residing in several states before returning to Willows, where she married Owen Rocksvold. Together they welcomed their beloved son, Adrian David Rocksvold, on February 21, 2003. Unbeknownst to Melissa, she carried a gene for Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1, which she later passed on to Adrian. Although doctors feared he might not survive, Adrian defied the odds; a testament to faith, prayer, and the steadfast love of his parents.In 1998, Melissa experienced the heartbreaking loss of her mother, Jill, and younger brother, David. In 2006, tragedy struck again with the passing of her husband, Owen. During this difficult time, Melissa and Adrian relocated to Grants Pass, Oregon, where they were embraced by extended family.Melissa was devoted to her family, later moving to Chico, California, in 2016 to help care for her brother, Jonny. She shared this responsibility with her father, Doug, and brother Scott, balancing caregiving for both Jonny and Adrian with remarkable strength and compassion.On August 11, 2019, Melissa married Paul Nelson, who became a devoted husband and loving stepfather to Adrian. Together, Melissa and Paul shared a joyful life, including a memorable road trip to Disneyland in 2023.Melissa’s symptoms of Myotonic Dystrophy progressed over the last three years, eventually requiring full?time care in a nursing facility. Throughout this difficult journey, Paul’s unwavering love and support never faltered. He cared for Adrian as his own son and faithfully stood by Melissa’s side until the end.Melissa’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She loved her Heavenly Father and Savior deeply and followed the example of her brother, Jonny, who inspired her with his strength, faith, and grace.Melissa will be remembered for her beauty, her loving heart, and her courage. She is preceded in death by her mother, Jill; brothers Jonny and David; and Adrian’s father, Owen. She is survived by her father and stepmother, Doug and Donna Memmott; husband, Paul Nelson; son, Adrian Rocksvold; brother, Scott Memmott; step-brother Shawn Harris, step-sister, Amanda Harris, and her extended family.Melissa’s life was a testament to faith, endurance, and love. Though her absence leaves an ache in the hearts of those who knew her, she is joyfully reunited with her loved ones beyond the veil. She will be deeply missed and forever celebrated