Mary Melissa Lillard

Mary Melissa Lillard, age 56, of Blue Ridge, GA, passed away on May 21, 2024 after a long illness. She was surrounded by family, friends and her dogs.

 Melissa Lillard, or "Missy" to those who knew her all her life, loved her family, her animals, and nature. Throughout her life, if there was music, she would be dancing. Over the years, Missy fell in love with horses. Their grace, gentleness, and beauty drew her in and matched her spirit. She could often be found riding her beloved horses. They brought her much comfort and serenity. Her free spirit and love of life were ever present, but perhaps she will be most remembered for her unwavering courage and strength.

 Missy was born in Copperhill, Tennessee in 1967 to Sandra and Tim Mercier. She is a graduate of Fannin County High School and the University of Georgia. After graduating from college, Missy returned home to Blue Ridge to work in the family business, Mercier Orchards, Inc.

 Missy was preceded in death by her mother, Sandra H. Mercier, and maternal grandparents Ruth and Ralph Harper and her paternal grandparents Bill and Adele Mercier. 

 She is survived by her husband, David Lillard of Blue Ridge, Georgia; her children, Zachary Mercier Lillard and Annabel Lee Lillard; her father, Tim Mercier; her sister, Amanda H. Mercier and her husband Joe Foster; and her niece, Alexandria Foster.

Memorial Service, on Sunday May 26, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Finch-Cochran Funeral Home with Minister Terry Stuart officiating.

Cochran Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mary Melissa Lillard; you may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.