Melissa Tucker

Melissa Frances Tucker, age 73, of Mt. Vernon, Missouri, passed away at 12:35 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at her home. She was born February 6, 1953, in Springfield, Missouri, the daughter of Vincen “Vic” and Pauline (Smith) Baldwin.

Melissa spent her early childhood in Chesapeake, Missouri, where she cherished time with her dear friend, Janice. Together they rode bikes and enjoyed her beloved horse, Target. Recently, they reconnected and shared many fond memories from those early years. 

Melissa was especially close to her Grandma Dolly and often spoke warmly of their time together. She was surrounded by many friends and family during her youth and was baptized at Chesapeake Baptist Church. Later, she became a member of the First Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon, where she served in the children’s choir. 

Melissa was also a Girl Scout and later gave back as a Girl Scout Leader. Her love of music was evident throughout her life, as she participated in both band and vocal music, playing guitar and trumpet.

Melissa graduated from Mt. Vernon High School in 1971. She dedicated 30 years of service as a Respiratory Therapist at the Missouri State Chest Hospital in Mt. Vernon. In 1972, she became a mother to her son, Jason Jacob Tucker.

After the loss of her son, Melissa continued to share her love and care with others, becoming a mother figure to many. She opened her home to those in need, embodying generosity, and kindness. Melissa loved visiting with people and never met a stranger. Her warm spirit and giving heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her brother, Darrel Baldwin and his wife, Judy, of Mt. Vernon, Missouri; one niece, Kristy (Chris) Bork of Gallatin, Tennessee; three nephews: Dana Baldwin of Dallas, Texas; Derrick (Kelly) Baldwin of Grand Junction, Colorado; and Dustin (Heather) Baldwin of Republic, Missouri; and her adopted family, Robbie and Crystal Richardson of Mt. Vernon, Missouri.

Melissa was preceded in death by her parents, Vic and Pauline Baldwin; her son, Jason Tucker; and her brother, Delyle Baldwin.

A visitation was  held from 1-2 p.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home, in Mt. Vernon, with a funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial followed at the Campground Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made payable to Whosoever or to the Campground Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be shared at www.FossettMosherFuneralHome.com.