Melissa Saad

OXFORD – Melissa L. (Despin) Saad, 51, of Newton Avenue, died peacefully on Saturday, June 11, 2022, in her home.  She is survived by three children, Ashley M. Saad and her husband Richard Lucier of Oxford, Courtney S. Tomlin and her husband Trevor Tomlin of Austin, TX, and Joshua C. White of Oxford; four sisters, Lena L. Deter of Tennessee, Donna M. Nalewajk of Thompson, CT, Debra J. Light of Thompson, CT, and Diane A. Kenney of Florida; a brother Stephen F. Despin, Sr. of Florida; six grandchildren, Elizabeth, Christopher, Gabriella, Chase, Viktorya, and Gavyn; her Goddaughter, Alyssa Courtemanche of Virginia; her best friend and caregiver, Gloria M. Perron of Oxford; and many nephews and nieces.  She was predeceased by her sister, Denise A. Rurka who died in 2020; and her former husband, Richard J. Saad, Jr. who died in 2013.  She was born in Worcester, daughter of the late Edgar S. and Anita B.C. (Deschenes) Despin, and was a lifelong resident of Oxford.  She graduated from Oxford High School in 1988 and later attended the Salter School.

Ms. Saad worked for AdCare in Worcester for 19 years. She enjoyed shopping, trips to the casino, had a green thumb for gardening, and was skilled in crafts.  Melissa was a very caring person who helped to raise nephews, nieces, cousins, and many children throughout her life.  Her door was always open and her home a frequent gathering place for family and friends.  Most important in her life was her family.

Memorial calling hours are Sunday, June 26, 2022, from 1:00-4:30 p.m. at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oxford.  A prayer service will be held at 4:30 p.m. at the conclusion of the calling hours, followed by a celebration of Melissa’s life.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 3 Speen St., Suite 250, Framingham, MA 01701, or to H.M.E.A. Autism Resource Central, 712 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01605.