Melissa Banks Miller, of Elkhart, passed away at 54 years of age on Wednesday, January 18. She suffered from muscular dystrophy like her father and died of complications from a stroke.

Melissa was born to Patricia Banks Miller and the late Robert Barrett Miller in Elkhart, Indiana, June 5, 1962. She attended Hickory Hills kindergarten, Trinity Lutheran School (1-10) and Elkhart Central High School (11-12). Melissa then attended Indiana University South Bend where she studied English History and Theater. She spent one summer with IUSB in London, England, to further her history and theater studies. Melissa was a member of the Elkhart Civic Theater and several smaller theater groups.

Melissa worked as a secretary for the Elkhart Memorial Band Department, a substitute teacher for the school system, and she also worked in the mobile home industry.

Melissa loved listening to music, reading, swimming in Lake Michigan, horseback riding, and spending time with her family and pets. She enjoyed dance and took lessons in tap and Irish dancing. Melissa followed the Elkhart Basketball League, and, like her father, was an avid Notre Dame fan. Melissa was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Elkhart, where she was a member of the Chancel Choir and the Bell Choir.

Melissa left this life peacefully, surrounded by the love of family and friends. She was brave, clear, and full of love for life to the very end.

Melissa is survived by mother, Patricia Banks Miller; uncle, Glenn L. Banks; and cousins, Marcia Banks, William P. Banks, John K. Banks, and Stephen G. Banks.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be directed to the First Presbyterian Church, Elkhart, or a charity of choice.

Her care has been entrusted to Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home.