Melody Ann Wilcox

Melody Ann Wilcox (Mel) age 61, passed away on January 28, 2026, in Mesquite, Nevada. A woman of boundless energy and an undeniable zest for life, Mel lived every moment to the fullest, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and kindness. 

She was gifted to this world on June 22, 1964, in Henderson, Nevada, to Marilyn and Oliver Ketzenberg, who preceded her in death. Mel moved frequently during her youth, including time in Glenrock, Wyoming, where she attended school. As a teenager, she worked in her parents’ family-owned pizza parlor, an experience that helped shape the hardworking, social spirit she carried throughout her life. 

Mel was a devoted mother and a source of pure love and strength to her three children: Shawna (born April 1983), Jennifer (born March 1985), and Daniel (born April 1987). When she married the love of her life, James (Jim) Wilcox, in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1993, her family grew to include her beloved stepchildren: Crystal (born November 1977), Andrew (born 1980), and Nicole (born 1988). To all her children, Mel was more than a parent—she was a best friend and big sister. 

Becoming a grandparent was one of the greatest joys of Mel’s life. She truly glowed when her grandchildren were around and loved watching them play, grow, and thrive. They were the light of her life. 

Mel and Jim were inseparable, sharing a love that was undeniable, unconditional and pure. They lived for each other, worked together in construction, and embraced life side by side, always. Their adventures included camping, fishing, traveling, and countless side-by-side excursions, always looking for the next adventure to add to their vault of precious memories. 

Mel knew no stranger. She lived with generosity, compassion, and a contagious joy that drew people in. She was the life of the party and made sure no one ever drank alone! Her laughter filled every room, and her presence alone could turn any moment into a memory. 

She is survived by her devoted husband, James Wilcox; her children, Shawna(Jason), Jennifer and Daniel(Jenika); her stepchildren, Crystal (Glenn), Andrew (Latosha), and Nicole (Aaron); her cherished grandchildren, Skyleigh, Payton, Jaden, Tristan, Aspen, Ezariya, and Cadence; her brother Lee; her sister Debbie; and her brother Steve. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marilyn and Oliver Ketzenberg, and her brothers, Daniel and Jay.