Notifications

No notifications
We will send an invite after you submit!

Melanie's obituary

Now in the arms of our Lord, Melanie Dawn Conolly 66, of Urbandale IA. Passed away on April 10, 2025 in her home after a long battle with COPD.

Born on June 29, 1958 to John and Kathy Eernisse, Melanie graduated from Sioux City East High School in 1976. She then moved to Des Moines with family, where she built a successful career as a furniture sales consultant, working at several stores throughout the metro area.

Melanie had a passion for interior decorating, crafting, and, of course, shopping. She cherished her regular get-togethers with "the girls" and found immense joy in hosting sleepovers for her beloved grandchildren, that's when her heart was fullest, and her mission to spoil them was happily accomplished.

With a radiant smile and infectious laugh, Melanie had a unique ability to brighten any room. She was the life of the party and made those around her feel truly special. A devout Christian, her love for Jesus Christ was evident in her daily life and the warmth she extended to others.

She later married Tom Jeffries, with whom she had two sons, Dustin and Casey; they later divorced. Melanie and Kevin reunited in 2001 and were married on December 21, 2003.

She is survived by her loving husband Kevin, sons Dustin Jeffries and his children, Corbin and Del Fina; Casey Jeffries and his wife, Sarah, and their children, Nora, Sage, and Margot, brother Randy Eernisse of Casa Grande, Az. She also leaves behind a dear friend, Julie Moore, who was like a sister and shared many cherished Friday night gatherings.

Melanie was preceded in death by her parents, John and Kathleen Eernisse.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to UnityPoint Hospice.

A living funeral was held in October for the family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 4, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Chicago Speak Easy, located at 1520 Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA.

Print this obituary

Order a beautiful PDF you can print and save or share.

Want to stay updated?

Get notified when new photos, stories and other important updates are shared.
Flower

Send flowers

Share your sympathy. Send flowers from a local florist to Melanie's family or funeral.
Helping hands

Add to her legacy

Please consider a donation to any cause of your choice.

Memories & condolences

A grand lady, helped me out when I was down and out and told me to keep fighting. A beautiful lady. She will be missed.
A grand lady, helped me out when I was down and out and told me to keep fighting. A beautiful lady.…
A grand lady, helped me out when I was down and out and told me …

Having known Mel for the past 30 years, she has been a true joy and inspiration for me and so many!! 

Though we had lost…

Having known Mel for the past 30 years, she has been a true joy and inspiration for me and so many!…

Having known Mel for the past 30 years, she has been a true joy …

Share your memories

Post a photo, tell a story, or leave your condolences.

Get grief support

Connect with others in a formal or informal capacity.
×

Stay in the loop

Melanie Conolly