Melissa Marie Stania

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Melissa Marie Stania, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and friend. She passed away peacefully at home on March 23rd 2025 at the age of 45. Melissa fought a courageous 3-year battle with metastatic cancer, showing remarkable strength, resilience and grace throughout her journey. 

Born in Bellefonte and raised in Mount Union Pennsylvania, Melissa was a 1998 graduate of Mount Union Area High School. She went on to earn her Lab Tech degree from Penn State Hazleton in 2002. After graduation she made the bold move to Meriden Connecticut, where she began her career at Quest Diagnostics. For 23 years Melissa dedicated herself to her work where her kindness and exceptional work ethic made her a respected and cherished member of the team. 

In 2015 Melissa moved to Massachusetts following a job transfer, making the cozy little town of Upton her home. Along the way she created a warm and welcoming home for her family, always prioritizing the love and well-being of those around her. 

Above all, Melissa was a devoted mother to her 15-year-old son Aiden Judway. Their bond was immeasurable, and she poured her heart and soul into raising him with love, care and encouragement. Her son was her greatest pride and joy, and her dedication to him was evident in every aspect of her life. 

Melissa had a deep love for the beach and the ocean, often finding peace and solace by the water. She also had a great love for reading. Her love for travel took her to many places with Aiden and her family, enriching her life with the beauty of the world and the memories she created along the way. She was an incredible woman who touched countless lives, and she will be deeply missed. 

Melissa is survived by her son, Aiden Judway, her mother Lisa McMath; her siblings Edward Wharton, Emily Wharton and Jenny Englert; her grandfather Frank McMath and many extended family members both on the east and west coast, and her friends who love her dearly. She is also survived by her lifelong best friend Brandy (Booher) Agnew. She was preceded in death by her father Edward Wharton, her grandmother Carolyn McMath and her grandparents Kenneth (Tom) and Barb Wharton. 

A celebration of Melissa's life will be held on April 26th, 2025 at The Way Church, 41 Pine St. Milford, Massachusetts between the hours of 1-3 p.m. Another celebration of her life will be held on May 3rd, 2025 at Bricktown Events, 28 W. Shirley St. Mount Union, Pennsylvania between the hours of 1-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to a cancer institute of your choice in Melissa's memory. 

My sweet girl, may you rest in peace, forever embraced by the beauty of the ocean you loved so much.