Birth date: Oct 5, 1974 Death date: Sep 4, 2025
Melissa Foti, 50, of Maple Shade, NJ, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on September 4, 2025. Born in Toms River, NJ, on October 5, 1974, she was the cherished daughter of Peter C. Foti Sr. and the late Carole (nee Curl Read Obituary
Melissa had a palpable spirit that was contagious. We spent time together in the earlier years in rescue. She could get me to go on some pretty sketchy dog saving missions and we always got the dog. She fostered and adopted her beloved Puddin with One Love Animal Rescue. I loved her posts about how much she loved her home and the pure joy she had decorating for each season. Heaven gained an Angel with a smile that is bigger than her wings.
Melissa's beautiful spirit left a profound mark on all who knew her, and I'd like to share a few words in her honor. While I wasn't a very close friend of hers, Mel was a cherished, long time friend to my best friend Coral, who we also lost to cancer. Amidst the loss of our deal Coral, Mel and I bonded over our tendency towards providing loving homes to a surplus of wayward animals, no matter the circumstances - those two facts alone told me everything I needed to know about her incredible heart. She was an awesomely fun, down-to-earth, genuine person to talk to, and I recall her being someone I would frequently gravitate toward in a sea of people, back when Coral hosted house parties in Philadelphia.
Mel's kindness and steadfast support during Coral's difficult times were truly remarkable, and her choice to stay in touch with genuine, unconditional empathy long after Coral's passing, while others had moved on/things got quiet, was a testament to her beautiful spirit and loving nature.
We shared a passion for sugar gliders, and I was fortunate to meet her beloved pets years ago - a memory I deeply treasure. I regret not being around more in person, or staying in closer touch when I moved back home to New Jersey; the missed opportunity weighs heavily on my soul.
Mel's warmth and compassion were a gift to this world, and I know her absence will be profoundly felt. I find comfort in imagining Melissa & Coral, both so courageous in their battles against cancer, now dancing happy among the stars, free of pain, surrounded by a menagerie of animals in heaven.
Please know that your family is in my prayers during this difficult time. Cancer is a brutal disease, leaving deep pain for those who watch a loved one endure it. I hope with time you will find healing, knowing Melissa is free from pain, and that her strength and spirit are now an eternal light surrounding all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Wishing you strength and peace as you honor Melissa's beautiful legacy.
