Melissa Ann Head, age 49, of Emida, Idaho, passed away unexpectedly at her home on May 22, 2026. Her sudden passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her, but her legacy of love, strength, and devotion to family will live on for generations.

Melissa was born on December 18, 1976, in Nampa, Idaho, to Rick and Joyce Parry. She was raised in Winnemucca, Nevada, where she graduated from Lowry High School with the Class of 1994. Following high school, she attended Colorado Technical Institute, earning her Associate of Arts degree.

Melissa married the love of her life, Paul Head, on September 24, 2008, in Twin Falls, Idaho. Together they built a life centered around family, hard work, and faithfulness to one another. They first made their home in Castleford, Idaho, before relocating to Idaho City in 2012. There, Melissa worked at Trudy's Kitchen, a place that quickly became more than a job—it became an extension of her passion for feeding and caring for others. In 2018, Melissa and Paul proudly purchased the business and operated it together until 2023.

That same year, they followed their dream of country living and moved to Emida, Idaho, where they established their home, raising cattle and farming. Melissa embraced the lifestyle she loved, finding joy in the simple things: tending her garden, nurturing beautiful flowers, preparing meals for those she loved, and caring for her family.

Above all else, Melissa was devoted to her family. She was the heart of every gathering, the keeper of traditions, and the steady presence everyone relied upon. She had a gift for making people feel welcome, loved, and cared for. Whether through a warm meal, a thoughtful conversation, or simply opening her home and heart, Melissa made everyone around her feel like family.

Her greatest joy was being a wife, mother, and grandmother. Time spent with her children and grandchildren was precious to her, and she treasured every moment she shared with them. Melissa was truly the glue that held her family together, and the love she poured into those around her created bonds that will endure long after her passing.

Those who knew Melissa will remember her kind heart, her generous spirit, her unwavering dedication to those she loved, and the way she could make any house feel like home. While her passing came far too soon, the countless memories she leaves behind will continue to bring comfort and strength to those who were blessed to know her.

Melissa is survived by her beloved husband, Paul Head; her children Maddylin Head (Crocket Briseno) of Pocatello, ID, Eleanor Head (Dante Rigsby) of Idaho City, ID, Faith Rice (Mike) of Boise, ID, Jackie Wada (Matthew) of Emida, ID, Sebastian Malan of Winnemucca, NV, and Dominic Malan of Winnemucca, NV., grandchildren Jacqaari Wada, Maeve Rigsby, Finnley Rice, Florence Rice, and Jupiter Rice, parents Rick and Joyce Parry of Council, ID, siblings Ricky Parry Jr. of Winnemucca, NV and John Parry (Rebecca) of Conway, NC, and numerous other family members and friends who will miss her deeply. She is preceded in death by her sister Melanie Withers.

A funeral service celebrating Melissa's life will be held at the family cemetery on the Head family property on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Though our hearts are broken by her sudden departure, we find comfort in knowing that the love Melissa gave so freely remains woven into the lives of all who knew her. Her hands may be still, but the family she cherished and held together will forever carry her love forward.