Melissa Marie Dyer, 46, Passes Away Unexpectedly

Dyer died of metastatic cancer at Henry Ford Hospital in Jackson, Michigan.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Melissa Marie Dyer, a 46-year-old resident of Jackson, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on January 28, 2026 due to metastatic cancer at Henry Ford Hospital in Jackson. She is survived by her father, brother, mother, two children, and a grandchild. Dyer was preceded in death by her husband Gary Dyer, who passed away the previous year.

Why it matters

Dyer's unexpected passing at a relatively young age highlights the devastating impact of cancer, which continues to be a leading cause of death in the United States. Her story also underscores the importance of access to quality healthcare and the need for continued research and advancements in cancer treatment.

The details

Melissa Marie Dyer was born on February 2, 1979 in Jackson, Michigan to parents Donnie Risner Sr. and Regina Crockett. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her brother Donnie Risner Jr., her daughter Lindsay Marie Risner, her son Austin Lee Dyer, her stepson Dylan Dyer, and her grandchild Brooklyn Marie Miller. Dyer was preceded in death by her husband Gary Dyer, who passed away on February 22, 2025.

Melissa Marie Dyer passed away on January 28, 2026.
Dyer's husband Gary Dyer passed away on February 22, 2025.

The players