Melissa McGee Herrera - age: 89
(July 09, 1922 to November 18, 2011
)
Resident of
South Portland, Maine
Obituary:
"Melissa McGee Herrera , born on July 9th in Winchester KY, died on November 18th in Saco ME - it was quite a ride twixt those two locations. The eldest child of John C. McGee and Viva Sparks, she was fiercely proud of her Irish heritage – a pride she instilled in her children and her grandchildren.
After leaving Kentucky for Maimi, FL to get work during the war years, she met Fernando Alberto Herrera, married him, and jumped into the role of Army wife – getting their growing family moved and settled during tours in both Japan & Taiwan, and numerous postings stateside, eventually settling in Middletown, NJ for over 40 years before moving on to Colorado. Her love of travel inspired her to visit Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Greece, England, Puerto Rico, Germany and oh, those many road trips across America to visit family and see the sights. ..“Look at the scenery!”
A graduate of St. Agatha’s Academy in her native Winchester, she loved language and was adamant about the value of education. While working full-time, she put herself through night school earning an Associate of Arts from Brookdale Community College, a Bachelor of Arts from Thomas Edison College, and Paralegal Certification from Monmouth College. Melissa loved verbal repartee and was active in the Jersey Coast Speakers Club.
Melissa worked at: Miami Power & Light (FL), US Army/Ft. Monmouth / the Hexagon (NJ), and Brookdale Community College(NJ), but never defined herself by her employment.
A vivacious hostess, she enjoyed entertaining and trying new recipes and cuisines – “It’s called ‘quiche’”. She had a passion for Hersey bars with almonds and dirty vodka martinis and her husband’s Mexican cooking. She also liked to be entertained and often attended performances on Broadway and Lincoln Center.
She is predeceased by her husband, Maj. Fernando A. Herrera (US Army, Ret.), her grandson, Ammon Montoya, and her son-in-law, Edward Shreve. She is survived by her children: Cecelia Herrera Montoya, Mary Jo Herrera Montoya, James P. Herrera, and by ten grandchildren, and eleven (and still counting) great-grandchildren.
She was always interested in learning and encouraged our love for literature, art, travel, and foods. Her influence has been felt profoundly through 3 generations and will continue for many more. She has left us a legacy of love, wit, and a \""Touch of Class\"" we would not otherwise have had. We will miss her very, very much.
In lieu of flowers you can “Stand up straight!” and make a donation in her name to:
St. Agatha’s Academy
244 South Main St.
Winchester, KY. 40391.
Donations will go to the library and art programs.
"
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