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Melisa A. Lewton, age 53, of Sturgis, and formerly of Emma, Indiana, went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, passing peacefully and surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on August 25, 1971 at Fort Riley, Kansas to Phillip D. and Mari A. (Frederick) Gerber.
A proud graduate of Westview High School, Class of 1989, Melisa lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others.
On May 16, 1992, she married, Jason E. Lewton, in Bristol, Indiana. Together they built a beautiful life centered on their shared love for God, each other, their children, and their growing family. Becoming a mother—and later a grandmother—was her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren.
Melisa faithfully served her community and church throughout her life. She was an active member of Radiant Life Church in Sturgis, where she joyfully volunteered in many roles and most recently served in the prayer ministry. Her heart for ministry also led her to serve as the Director of the Compassion Pregnancy Center of LaGrange and Steuben Counties, where she helped guide and support countless women and families. In addition, Melisa served for many years as the Clearspring Township Trustee, giving her time and energy to meet the needs of others.
Those who knew Melisa will remember her as a compassionate servant, a faithful prayer warrior, and a devoted wife, mother, and “Grandma Lisa.”
Along with her husband, Jason, she is survived by her children; Austin (Jeslyn) Lewton of Shipshewana; Jaron (Caitlin) Lewton of LaGrange; Logan (Katie) Lewton of Shipshewana; Kolten (Amy) Lewton of LaGrange; and Gretchen Lewton (Owen Bowersox), both of Sturgis.
She also leaves behind her parents; Phillip D. (Tamra) Gerber of Angola, and Mari A. Bowers of Auburn, IN; two brothers: Mike (Charlene) Gerber and Nick Gerber, both of Auburn; grandchildren, Everett, Emerson, Elliana, Smith, Emma, Ila, Josie, and one more blessing on the way.
Family and friends are invited to visitation on Monday, August 4, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Radiant Life Church, 907 N. Nottawa St., Sturgis.
A celebration of Melisa’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the church, with Pastor Brandon Kinsey officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Howe, IN.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Melisa’s memory to the Compassion Pregnancy Center of LaGrange & Steuben Counties, a ministry close to her heart. https://www.cpcni.org/donate-1
Arrangements by Frurip-May Funeral Home.
