Melissa L. Kunkle

Melissa L. Kunkle, 82, of Conroe, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025, in Brenham. Visitation with family and friends will be held Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Nobles Funeral Chapel from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, with funeral services immediately following at 12:30 PM, officiated by Rev. Angel Padilla. Cremation services are under the direction of Nobles Funeral Chapel.

Born May 30, 1943, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Melissa was the daughter of James Turnley Lassiter and Margaret Josephine Hayman Lassiter. Both of her parents were proud descendants of the Modoc Tribal Nation in Miami, Oklahoma—heritage that Melissa carried with deep respect. She graduated from high school in Orange, Texas, and later attended Sam Houston State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. It was there, while standing in a registration line, that she met Richard Kenneth Laster, father of her two sons, Ronald Keith and Jon Christopher.

Melissa raised her boys with unwavering dedication as a single mother until meeting the love of her life, Roger Ellsworth Kunkle. They married in 1994 and shared many joyful years together.

For 25 years, Melissa worked for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, retiring as a Substance Abuse Counselor, a role through which she touched countless lives with her compassion and steady guidance. Never one to sit still, she later joined Wal-Mart in the lawn and garden department, where she enjoyed the simple pleasures of tending to plants and flowers.

Melissa and Roger also embraced a beloved tradition—bringing holiday cheer as the professional Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus for The Woodlands Mall and many other events across the area. For 15 years, they created treasured memories for families near and far.

One of the greatest joys of Melissa’s life was her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with them—whether gathered around the table for a holiday meal, cheering them on at school events, or simply sharing stories and laughter. They were the light of her life, and she poured endless love, pride, and encouragement into each one of them.

She also had a spirited love for travel. Melissa delighted in seeing new places, exploring different cultures, and collecting memories along the way. Whether journeying across the country or venturing abroad, she approached every trip with curiosity, gratitude, and a sense of adventure. Her travels enriched her life and gave her stories she lovingly passed down to her family.

Her dogs held a truly special place in Melissa’s heart. Throughout her life, she was rarely without a loyal canine companion by her side. Her pups brought her comfort, laughter, and unwavering affection, and she cared for each of them with deep devotion. They were part of her daily life and her family, and the joy they brought her was unmistakable.

Melissa is preceded in death by her parents, James and Margaret Lassiter; her husband, Roger Ellsworth Kunkle; her son, Ronald Keith Laster; her bonus son, Roger Eric Kunkle; and her brother, James Eric Lassiter.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Chris Laster, and his wife, Sharon Tran Laster; bonus children, Stephanie Kunkle and her spouse, Renee Payne, and B.J. Kunkle and his spouse, Nikki Kunkle; grandchildren, Cierra Tallerine and her husband, Jacob Tallerine, Dalton Laster, Re Payne, and Bradley Payne; great-grandchildren, Emma Reece and Elliot Rynn; and a host of loving relatives and dear friends.

We rejoice in the promise that she is now held in God’s everlasting embrace, restored, renewed, and surrounded by the light of His love. Until we meet again, her faith and kindness remain with us, guiding our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The American Breast Cancer Foundation.