Melissa Thacker

Memorial by Angela T.I.P. Dillard

Melissa’s friend

On 7/25/21 My lil buddy committed suicide at Pulaski State Prison. I have never crossed paths with a suicidal person before, but my spirit said, "love her." So we started on a journey of becoming best friends all the while shining God's Light. I later learned she told people when she first saw me she thought I was crazy because I was happy, no way someone is that happy in prison! My friend, Melissa, whom I affectionately called "squirt" was sweet, loving, dependable, loyal and smart. She also battled with depression, rejection, and racing thoughts. We never know who God places in front of us to shine its light by loving them anyway. So let's help each other by loving anyway. I miss my friend and I am sad, however I loved her anyway.

Memorial by Net Net

Melissa’s friend

I battle with how to do a memorial, is it like an obituary, what do I say, what tone do I use, can it bring laughter or should it remain sad? Well, I would like those of you reading to know about Melissa Thacker. Melissa was housed at Pulaski State Prison, and was a lifer. She was also a sister who was involved with a group called" SURF" (Sisters Understanding Real Freedom) because being a lifer, your only reality of freedom is on the inside. Melissa had a heart, a smile that was contagious, insecurities like most women, and a battle with suicide.

Melissa took her life on July 25, 2021 behind words that were used towards her. Do we not know words are deadly, do we not know that nobody is perfect, do we not understand that there is a crisis with suicide?

Melissa you are missed, and I am blessed to have known you.