ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The Collinsville and St. Louis communities are in mourning following the heartbreaking death of Melissa Renee Badgett, a 23-year-old from Collinsville, Illinois, who tragically passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Emergency responders from the St. Louis City Fire Department and the St. Louis City Police Department were dispatched to the intersection of Broadway and Walnut after reports of a person who may have fallen from a high-rise building. Upon arrival, authorities confirmed that Melissa had tragically died at the scene.
“This is truly heartbreaking,” said a neighbor. “Melissa was loved by so many, and she will be deeply missed by her family and friends.”
A Life Full of Love and Compassion
Melissa Renee Badgett was born on March 8, 2002, in Glen Carbon, Illinois. She was formerly a resident of Granite City, Illinois, and later Collinsville. From a young age, Melissa had a deep love for animals and was especially fond of horses, a passion she carried throughout her life.
Family and friends remember Melissa as a kind, caring, and compassionate young woman. She was known for her warmth, generosity, and the ability to bring joy to those around her. Her smile, sense of humor, and caring nature left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
“Melissa had a beautiful soul,” said a close friend. “Her kindness and spirit will never be forgotten.”
Survived by Loving Family
Melissa is survived by her devoted family, including:
- Mother: Kimberly K. (Powers) Badgett of Granite City
- Father: Bradley R. Badgett of Edwardsville
- Sisters: Melanie Badgett of Granite City and Madelyn Badgett of Edwardsville
She is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends who loved her dearly. Melissa was preceded in death by her grandparents, Charlotte Sutton, Jack Powers, and Duane and Eileene Badgett.
Her family has requested privacy during this extremely difficult time while also welcoming the community to honor her memory and celebrate her life.
Funeral and Visitation Arrangements
To commemorate her life, the family has announced that visitation and a memorial service will be held at Irwin Chapel, located at 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, Illinois:
- Visitation: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
- Memorial Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., officiated by Reverend Larry Ridenour
Community members, friends, and loved ones are encouraged to attend, share memories, and offer support to the grieving family.
A Community in Mourning
The news of Melissa’s passing has sent shockwaves through Collinsville, St. Louis, and surrounding communities. Tributes on social media, memorial messages, and heartfelt condolences reflect the profound impact she had on those who knew her.
Melissa’s life, though tragically cut short, leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion. She will be remembered for her caring nature, her devotion to family and friends, and her joy for life. Her passing is a solemn reminder of the importance of supporting one another and cherishing the time we have with loved ones.
“Melissa will always be remembered for the joy she brought into our lives,” a family friend said. “Her spirit will live on in all of us who loved her.”
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