Melinda Kay Taylor (Hukill)
Melinda Kay (Hukill) Taylor, age 47, of Diamond, entered her heavenly home on Friday, April 10, 2026, after a two-year courageous battle with cancer.
Melinda, daughter of Michael and Ronda Hukill, was born on August 15, 1978, in Merced, CA. She grew up and attended school in Manteca, CA. She attended Andon College in Modesto, CA. to become a Medical Assistant and Phlebotomist. At a young age, Melinda’s parents took her and her brother on camping trips and visits to the ocean, experiences that fostered in her a lifelong love for the outdoors.
Melinda was introduced to Jonathan Taylor on a blind date. They were united in marriage on September 15, 2001, in Winton, CA. In 2021, she moved to Missouri, where she attended Faith Assembly Church in Joplin.
Melinda was an exceptional wife, mother, and daughter, whose life was defined by her devotion to family and her caring spirit. She had a natural talent and eye for decorating, and found great joy in do-it-yourself projects, particularly painting and restoring furniture. She also cherished the time she spent working at her antique booths alongside her mother, creating not only beautiful displays but lasting memories.
Her three sons were the center of her life and her greatest joy. She was deeply committed to their upbringing and chose to homeschool them to ensure they received a strong Christian education, a value that was profoundly important to her.
Melinda was known for her loving and compassionate nature, leaving a meaningful impact on all who knew her. Following the passing of her brother, she grew especially close to her nieces, becoming a constant source of love and support in their lives.
Survivors include her husband, Jonathan Taylor; her sons, Calvin Taylor, Cole Taylor, and Collin Taylor; her parents, Michael and Ronda (Warren) Hukill, of Joplin; sister-in-law, Jeanette (Hukill) Birnbaum, of CA; parents-in-law, Steve and Davene Taylor, of CA; brothers-in-law, Stephen Taylor, of Neosho, Paul Taylor, of CA; sister-in-law, Sarah Yarbrough, of CA; and several adored nieces and nephews, as well as uncles and aunts. Melinda was preceded in death by her grandparents and one brother, Lucas Hukill.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Faith Assembly Church in Joplin with entombment to follow to at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Friday, April 17, 2026 beginning at 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Faith Assembly Church. Address for Faith Assembly Church 7211 East 32nd Street, Joplin, MO 64804. Flowers may be delivered to the church on Friday, beginning at 4:00 PM.
Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery and Crematory, Joplin.
