Melissa Kay Richie

Melissa "Leesa" Kay Scott-Richie, 58, of Sedalia, MO, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025, at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia. She was born July 19, 1967, in Sedalia, the daughter of Wilson Lee Curd III and Kathleen Clark-Scott, who preceded her in death.

Leesa was the beloved only child of Kathleen Clark-Scott. She was a proud graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, Class of 1985. Following graduation, she enlisted in the Job Corps, beginning her journey of service and dedication. Upon returning home, she pursued a career in health care, earning her CNA/CMT certification from State Fair Community College.

Leesa's compassion for others shined throughout her career. She first worked at Fairview Nursing Home, where she excelled in caring for others, before joining the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg. She later continued her work in Columbia, MO, at Candlelight Lodge and Lenoir Woods, before returning to Sedalia to again serve at Fairview Nursing Home. Most recently, she was employed at Twin Oaks Independent Living, where her kindness and dedication touched many lives. Caring for people was not just her career-it was her calling.

Beyond her work, Leesa had many passions. She adored her collection of Barbie dolls, loved watching Tyler Perry productions, and was known as a mother figure to many whose lives she enriched. She was a member of Burns Freewill Baptist Church and also frequently attended Bethel Family Church. Leesa will be deeply missed by all who knew her, remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the lasting impression she left on every heart she touched.

Leesa is survived by her fiancé, Jonathan Gould; her sister, Judy Curd (Tosca Sweatt) of Columbia, MO; aunts, Shirley Alonzo and Barbara Smith; special cousins, Beverly Clark of Sedalia and Emmanuel Yancey of Columbia, MO; a beloved special sister, Veronica Sims; special friend Crystal Sims; the extended Boggs family; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Michelle Curd; brother, Michael Dale Poindexter (Darlene); maternal grandparents, Esther and Leon Clark; paternal grandparents, Lucille and Wilson Lee Curd Sr.; and her uncle, Albert Clark.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel with Pastor Joyce Foster officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel. Burial will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery, Sedalia, MO.

Pallbearers will be Emmanuel Yancey, D'Michael Poindexter, Devonte Poindexter, Kayden Murigu, Jeffrey Boggs, Tony Curd, and Derek Bartlett. Honorary bearers will be Mikki Poindexter, Ka'Jahnae Hightower, Wynter White, Terecia Clark, Tre Poindexter, Elijah Poindexter, Terecia Clark, Diane Barber, Ansley Sims, and Patriece Sims.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Helping Hands in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.