Mrs. Melissa L. Porch

Mrs. Melissa Loretta Porch, 95, of Peoria, IL transitioned to her heavenly home at 10:30 pm on Friday, December 23, 2022 at Grandview Alzheimer’s Special Care Center. Melissa was born on July 22, 1927 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri to proud parents Frank and Mary (Johnson) Daniels. She married the love of her life Earl Porch on December 6, 1942; he preceded her in death in January of 1969 after 23 years of marriage. In 1962 Melissa was awarded her GED from Peoria Public Schools. Melissa was a domestic engineer retiring from the State of Illinois Zeller Mental Health Center in 1994 after 27 years of service. During her employment at Zeller, she received certification in training regarding Abuse and Neglect and Drug Free Work Place Awareness. Melissa’s past work experiences included Vonachen Junction Restaurant as a salad maker; Blackie’s Archway Bar as a barmaid, the American Legion #1151 as a barmaid; Peter H. Clark, where she ran the kitchen for several years; the Harold’s Club as a Hostess and also Ideal Cab as a dispatcher. Melissa was affectionately called “Hip Hop Granny” by her grandchildren because she loved to dance. Melissa leaves to cherish her most precious memories two loving and devoted daughters, Loretta Ann (Charlie) Simpson and Gloria Jean (Luke) Smith both of Peoria, IL; a special niece whom she raised, Bertha Mae (David) Henderson of Peoria, IL 8 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren and 13 great-greatgrandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who adored Melissa. She is also preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Eddie Daniel; and four sisters, Ida Moore, Rhoda Lowery, Juanita Kimber and Lucille Johnson. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at New Cornerstone Baptist Church with a visitation at 10 am. Rev. Mark A. McConnell, Pastor, will officiate. Melissa will be laid to rest at Camp Butler National Cemetery with her husband on Monday, January 9, 2023. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com. The service will be live streamed on Simons Mortuary's Website or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Simons-Mortuary-232095303487150 promptly AT THE TIME OF THE SERVICE (Central Time). Due to Covid-19, social distancing is encouraged to be consistent with recommendations from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral home directors have been instructed and should follow CDC guidelines on gatherings, including those directly related to funerals, visitations, or graveside services. *In an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we ask that everyone in attendance: wear a face mask and refrain from hugging, kissing and shaking hands (as hard as it is to see someone you care about and not touch them). *It is our responsibility as Funeral Directors, to do everything we can to advise families in order to honor our beloved Families and to keep everyone as safe as possible. Thanks in advance for your cooperation!

Tributes

Mrs. Melissa L. Porch

July 22, 1927 - December 23, 2022