Melissa Stinnett Allaway, aged 76, of Athens, Alabama, passed away on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025, at Athens Limestone Hospital. Born on August 28th, 1949, in Lester, Alabama, Melissa was the daughter of William Bayles Stinnett and Anna Gray Corder Stinnett.
Melissa is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Joel Allaway. She leaves behind her son, Nick Allaway, and his wife, Lauren. Melissa was a proud grandmother to four wonderful grandchildren: Flynn, Barrett, Lillian, and Nolan. She is also survived by her brother, Michael Stinnett, and his wife, Wanda; brother-in-law Glenn Kenady; nieces and nephews Mark Stinnett, Sandra Blankenship, Jay Stinnett, Candace Arreola; and multiple great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Jane Lou Kenady, her brother Anthony Stinnett and his wife Robbie Nell Stinnett.
Friends and family are invited to gather to honor Melissa’s life and legacy. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 19th, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Limestone Chapel Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, December 20th, at 11:00 AM at the same location. Mrs. Allaway will be laid to rest in a private family service.
Melissa dedicated 26 years of her life to teaching, touching the hearts and minds of countless students. Her passion for education and nurturing spirit left a lasting impact on the community. Melissa was a remarkable woman whose kindness and warmth were felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Melissa Stinnett Allaway will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, dedication, and kindness will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
