Melissa Conaway Sybrandt

Melissa Conaway Sybrandt, 60, passed away on October 9, 2025, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, surrounded by her loving family. Melissa battled Appendiceal Cancer for the last 2 ½ years.

Born on February 27, 1965, in Chalmette, Louisiana, Melissa lived a life filled with warmth, grace, and love for those around her. In 1991, she moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she built lasting friendships and cherished memories, as well as meeting her husband and starting their family before returning home to Louisiana in 2009 to live in Baton Rouge.

Melissa is survived by her devoted husband, Mark Henry Sybrandt, 56; and her beloved sons, Peyton Conaway Sybrandt, 23, and Austin Conaway Sybrandt, 22. Her boys were the joy and pride of her life. She was passionate about watching them both play sports throughout their lives and never wanted to miss a game. She was very proud of both of them for the sporting accomplishments and graduating college over the past year. Melissa is also survived by her mother, Carolyn Conaway; and sister, Carla Conaway Madni. Predeceased by her father, Thurlow Conaway.

Melissa and Mark were married on St. Patrick's Day 2001 and were anticipating their 25th Anniversary this coming March.

She will be remembered for her kindness, her gentle spirit, and the way she made every person she met feel cared for and valued. Melissa’s love for her family and friends was steadfast and unconditional, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of Melissa’s life will be held in Baton Rouge and will take place at Resthaven Funeral Home on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Private family time will begin at 12:30pm, public at 1:00pm, and service at 2:30pm. A burial will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. Peyton and Austin Sybrandt will honor Melissa as the pallbearers. Following the ceremony at Resthaven, family and friends will be invited back to the Sybrandt home for a reception.

Her life was a beautiful example of love, strength, and compassion—a legacy that will live on in those she touched.