June 16, 2020

Jay, 
So sorry to hear about the loss of Melissa.  I didn’t know her, but through you I know how much you loved her, how close you were, and how special she was to all who did know her.  I’ll be praying for your healing and search for peace.
John Robinson
 

June 15, 2020

Dear Jay,
I was so saddened to read about the accident and Melissa’s passing. My heart goes out to you and your family as you figure out how to do life without her.  Please know that Jim and I will be praying for you and rejoicing in all that Melissa is seeing and experiencing now.  Heaven becomes more and more real and near.  
Because HE Lives !!!
Wendy Mauger

June 09, 2020

Melissa “Boots” Otto I will miss you. You are a fireball of energy, love and sassiness who brought joy and encourangement to so many.

To your family I say, I know that no words I say can ease your pain, so I humbly stand and grieve the loss of one of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever been blessed to know.

I pray that with time, and knowing that Melissa’s Spirit is with our Father, living without her in physical form will become less painful.

Peace be still!!

Claudette Watler-Hall

June 09, 2020

Dear Jay and family,
it is with great sorrow to recently learned of Melissa’s passing. We have shared the stage together in Worship and I had the opportunity to meet Melissa. She was always smiling and complimentary. My heart goes out to you with Prayers of Peace, Love, Strenght and Healing during such an unimaginable time. With Love and Blessings to you and your Family.
Michael Zabatta

June 09, 2020

Melissa made me smile the first day I met her when she came to volunteer for her daughters drum corp. She was a ray of sunshine every day with her good morning song to Jessica and her hard work. I’m glad I got the chance to meet her and got to know her, Jay, and Jessica the past two years. Prayers to Jessica and Jay through this difficult time Melissa will definitely be missed. 
Frank Birchfield

June 08, 2020

Our hearts and prayers are with you Jay Jessica Sean and family. We never met anyone quite like Melissa and I don’t think we ever will, she was the most amazing person, a bright shining star who will be missed dearly 
Sending our love and deepest condolences xxxx
Debbie Rod Emilie and Ella Heald xxxx

June 07, 2020

Jay and family, 
Met one of your riding friends today on that infamous roadway who spoke highly of you and Melissa. Deepest sympathies and condolence for your loss, may you find the peace you need. 
Jason

June 07, 2020

Goodbye sweet Melissa. You were an inspiration to all. We will miss you deeoly. Until we meet again. 😘
Doreen and Mike Dickson

June 07, 2020

Dear Jay and immediate family,
We have never met but my heart and prayers go out to you all as I have experienced far too many very close and sudden deaths. I pray for your continued fortitude, faith, and forgiveness. It may not seem possible, but this will pain and numbness will slowly lessen and the sun will eventually shine again.
1000 blessings of peace to you all. 
To Marilyn, Zester, Jennifer and all the family, I am so terribly sorry to hear of the sudden and tragic loss of your daughter/sister. I am here for you or your family if you need me. Please let me know if  any family members are having difficulty with processing the grief. I can help.
May the lord bless all of you in this most difficult of times. 
With my deepest condolences,
Dr Sandy Bevacqua

June 07, 2020

Jay we don’t know what to say except you are in our prayers.
John and Joyce Bice

June 07, 2020

Jay and family, our hearts are broken for you.  Melissa was such an amazing woman. We will be praying for you all as you make your way through this season of loss.
Kelly & Doug Good

June 07, 2020

Jay, Chele and I send our condolences. We appreciate the two of you and are always encouraged when we think of you. Thank you so much for your approach to life and truth. We hope for peace that passes all understanding for you and all your loved ones. Love
Wade & Michele 

June 07, 2020

Jay and Family,
We are so deeply sorry for your accident and loss. Melissa was such a positive life force and will be missed by so many. It is a tragedy and horrible accident that she is gone–but it was just that–an accident. She is now your guardian angel and you will see her again. Please know that you all are in our prayers.  May your sweet and happy memories comfort you at this difficult time. We feel so fortunate that we were able to get to know her a little bit. She was so helpful and fun on our last VT Drummers’ Zoom call, we can’t believe she is gone from this world. We could tell that y’all have a special relationship with Melissa and that she loves you very much. That love is everlasting. We wish you the peace and comfort of God’s eternal love. We are here for you any time.
With Love and Hugs,Ed and Kathy Gillikin

June 06, 2020

I always looked up to you Melissa- you’re a rock star at so many things!! Your radiated Jesus love to so many- thank you for being YOU! We always had fun when we were with you and Jay- I will miss you friend. Love you 💕
Michele Perron

June 06, 2020

To Jay and Family,
My deepest condolences to you all. Melissa was a light to so many. Every time I think of her all I can do is smile because she was such a positive , uplifting woman. She will be missed by many.
My sincere prayers and sympathy,
Tara Mills

June 06, 2020

Jay and Family,
I don’t think I have the words to express how deeply saddened I am to hear about Melissa’s passing. Please accept my prayers for her, you and your family and friends. Please know you will all be in my thoughts.    
Please accept my deepest sympathy, 
Dan Reed

June 06, 2020

Jay and family: My deepest prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.  Our hearts go out to you right now. Uplifting others was just one of Melissa’s many gifts from God and she will continue to uplift us all from heaven above. As we pray for healing and strength admist all this sorrow, I know you will find peace thru your faith and the love and support of friends. 
VIkki Cerino

June 06, 2020

Dear Otto Family,
Words cannot fully express the sorrow for your loss of wife and mother, Melissa! She was such a fun, loving, wonderful person and  we’re glad we had the chance to know her. She will be missed! 
Love and prayers,
The Stephens
 

June 06, 2020

Melissa radiated like a great star she will be greatly missed our thoughts and prayers go out to Jay and his children
dave and amy reppert

June 06, 2020

Such a great loss to the LCBC community. Our condolences to your family and may God comfort you all during this difficult time.
Monica and Randy Whalen

June 05, 2020

Dear Sean and Jay and family …. Jerry and I were so sorry to hear of the tragic death  of Melissa.   We loved her spunky personality and always enjoyed talking with you all. We are thinking of you and sending love and prayers to you as you move forward.  Please accept our sincere sympathies.  We love you!  Nancy and Jerry Michael

June 05, 2020

Jay, Bob and I remember our time spent with the two of you at Kathy and John Levitski’s! Melissa was such a fun loving gal! We grieve with you and your children. God bless you in your time of grief🙏
Lori and Bob Sugra

June 05, 2020

Dear Jay, Jessica and Sean, Its so hard to see Gods plan in all this.  Melissa was a light everywhere she went.  So caring, thoughtful, selfless and loving.  I met you all at the gym, the kids were small.  I always admired the dedication to health and fitness.  The last time I bumped into Melissa, once again, I enjoyed the breath of fresh air she brings.  Her faith was worn on her sleeve, she lived and loved as Christ flowed in and through her.  Some day God’s reasonings will make sense but for now I grieve with you.  I am so sorry.  Melissa will be missed by many.
Beth Grove

June 05, 2020

Our sincerest sympathies to you all. I will never forget Melissa’s sweet raspy voice, her kind spirit and love of life and adventure. She will be so missed💙  -AJ & Denise Yoder 

June 05, 2020

We are so sorry for your loss. Words just cannot express it. Melissa was a wonderful person and touched the hearts of everyone she met. 
Curtis and Lorraine Kulp

June 05, 2020

Melissa was electric. Some of the best days of my life were spent at the racetrack with Jay and Melissa as well as group rides such as the “turkey run” with them. She instantly made EVERYONE feel comfortable, no matter the situation. Jay and family, please know you have a HUGE network of cycling friends thinking of you during this time and will help with anything. At all. You helped Melissa have an amazing life as witnessed by her happiness, compassion, and kindness to us all. I’m so sorry. God bless, thinking of your crew…
Steve Thomas (Starman)

June 05, 2020

Know that your family has been lifted in prayer by friends throughout Northern Virginia, and Jay and the children will continue to be prayed over in the weeks and months to come.
Sanna Osborne

June 05, 2020

Nathalie Stroud and her family can not express the sorrow we feel in Melissa’s passing. Memories with Melissa will be cherished forever . What a privilege to have known her and her family . Melissa called Nathalie her girlfriend , at 98 years old she found Melissa to be quite a firecracker,and she loved her spirit. Melissa’s love of life,family,people and God is everlasting . Our thoughts and prayer are with your family .God’s comfort and Peace be with you .
Sherrie Miller

June 05, 2020

As her uncle, I first carried Melissa as a baby and then watched her grow using the spanish she was picking up saying “Mira, Mira” or “look look” (in English). So from early life she had this compelling personality to engage you to see what she was seeing. Then when she was about 10 years old her and her older sister Stephanie needed to get from Kansas City to their home in California. It was convinent for me to take these sisters as I was delivering a vehicle that direction. We had many hours of chatting. I found Melissa was not one to talk about frivilous nonsense as some youths might but even as young as she was had objective thought as to how to help people. Her middle name was after her grandma Hatfield who lived to be 100 years old. And like her grandmother she kept a joyous and bouyant heart. Yet Melissa proved that though she only lived half her grandmother’s years she drew an abundance of God’s favor toward the many she reached. And I believe in her passing will continue to see many follow after her example. May we be comforted in her love for many and challenged to express the passion Melissa displayed to the Lord Jesus and community she served.      
Curtis Jones

June 05, 2020

Dear Jay,  I really have no words. Just know that I have been and will continue to be praying for you and your family.
 
Tom and Debbie Bastian

June 05, 2020

Jay, Sean and Jessica,
We were saddened to hear of Melissa’s passing, you have our deepest sympathies.  May you feel the presence of your loving father as you grieve this tremendous loss.  May you be comforted by precious memories of a life well lived.
Dwight and Jenny Rohrer
Former neighbors

June 05, 2020

To the Otto family,  we are so sorry for your tremendous loss! Seems it’s always to extra special ones that go to heaven early.  I never had the pleasure of meeting Melissa but I do remember her calling me and asking for my help to cheer up her sister Jill. It was a breif call but i remember thinking she was so nice in a special way and it was obvious her love and concern for others was very important to her. I remember Jay when he was very young always to most intelligent one. Hang in there Jay! She is in a better place now.  I don’t know if you’d remember what we put on my brother Lou’s grave stone back when I knew you but it is very true. “There is in heaven” Love and prayers to you and your family always!!  🙏🙏 
 
Terry e Norton

June 05, 2020

Last summer I had the privilege of driving a volunteer van for Spirit of Atlanta Drum and bugle Corps for six weeks, her daughter Jessica was a member. We were leaving a show site and about 30 miles down the road I get a call that I had left someone in the parking lot. This was a new volunteer that I had not been made aware of. I told the person that called that I would find a Service station and wait for the staff bus to bring her. When the staff bus arrived this 5 ft nothin lady with a 10 ft personality, wearing jean shorts, Red cowboy boots and a cowboy hat walked briskly towards me pulling her 100 lb suitcase admonishing me( in typically good humor) for leaving her in the parking lot. We had that and many more laughs on our journey down the road. Her star will shine bright and I will never forget her beautiful spirit.
My heart aches for Jessica and her Dad.
Jerry McEver

June 05, 2020

A life well lived and taken from us too soon. Have full confidence Melissa rests in the arms of her Savior. Hold onto faith and know that when God calls a child home, He never abandons the ones left behind. Praying for you and your family.  
Jane Rehmer

June 05, 2020

I had the pleasure of meeting Melissa in 2013 where we talked about our love for fitness and health.  She embraced me and shared her goals and spoke of Restoring Pride.  That phrase has never left me.  Its been a few years since we had any contact.  My condolences to Melissa’s family.  You are all in my prayers during this very hard time.
Jannese Watt

June 05, 2020

Jay – I am saddened to hear the news about Melissa’s passing. You two along with the rest of the members of the Hardin small group have left an indelible impression on me. May you find strength and encouragement in the future by embracing the wonderful memories especially her caring and joyful spirit. Peace and Grace to you and your family. Warm regards from Jeffrey Kirchner.

June 05, 2020

Always appreciated your passion for business & life
Kenneth G Myers & Kegel’s Produce 

June 05, 2020

She was always a firecracker.  Wonderful memories of her indomitable spirit and wonderful laugh.  We’ll see her soon!  Our thoughts are with you today.
 
Joe & Stacey Gautier (Seattle)

June 05, 2020

Dear Jay Sean and Jessica, 
We can’t stop thinking of you all!  Knowing we met at the start of LCBC in life group together 26 years ago.   Right after Jessica’s baptism, our son Brandon got baptized, which I know sparked the interest in him because he was with us watching and it so helps kids/teens to see their peers taking the stand, so thank you Jessica!!   Our days go way back from her and I working together at LCBC putting binders together back in the day for the workship team, she got me started in creative memories which I still continue and am thankful for, she also got us involved in Bible to School which I volunteer with.    God used her and your family well!  
Our prayers go out to each of you for Gods Peace and Strength in the coming days and years!!  Todd Deb Brandon Bryce Witmer 

June 05, 2020

Jay
I am heartbroken and devastated to hear of your motorcycle accident and the fate of your sweet and dear wife Melissa.  I can’t imagine how you feel.  Please know that we are praying for you often during this time.  You guys were/are great friends and our memories go back to when we were in a small group / Life Group together.  I will always remember when Melissa approached me about Bible 2 School when I worked at Lampeter Strasburg School District.  She was one VERY special lady.  I know that you know that, but to everyone who knew her she left an indilable impression.
As I said our prayers are with you and we will be praying for you often.  May God’s comfort and peace be with you.
Love and Prayers
Les and Dee Stoltzfus Franklin TN

June 05, 2020

With deepest sympathy for your loss. Ken,Evelyn Miller 

June 05, 2020

Jay my condolences to you and your family.  May God send his angels down to surround you and your family to give you love strength and understanding. My thoughts prayers and love are sent your way ♥️
Rene’ Loparo-Peat

June 05, 2020

It was such an honor to have worked with Melissa for years. An amazing lady.  We’re praying for you Jay, Sean and Jessica. 
– Brian Hardin 

June 05, 2020

Jay, Jessica, and Sean – my thoughts and prayers are with you. I met Melissa about 10 years ago. We initially started meeting about my health and wellness goals, but she quickly became a friend and confidant. Her spirit was so bright and her energy was infectious. When she was hosting stadium workouts at the local high school, I recruited coworkers to join me for the workouts with her because I knew they would love her too, and they did. Melissa welcomed me into your home and was a true mentor and someone I will aspire to be like. If I can bring half of the love and enthusiasm to my life and the life of others that she did, then I’m on the right track. Sending you all so much love. Amanda Robinson

June 05, 2020

Dear Sean,
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. We will hold your family close to our hearts and in our thoughts and prayers.- Your Friends, Christine & Kayla 

June 05, 2020

I’m so so sorry for you great loss!! RIP ❤ sending prayers and hugs!! ❤ God Bless You ALL!! 💋
Danielle Hennessy

June 05, 2020

Dear Sweet Melissa. You and I knew each other from the gym and worked out together. Kind a lost touch but saw each other frequently different restaurants etc. etc. last time I saw you I was at Annie bailey’s for brunch and you and Jay came in. I knew you wanted to do your own thing but you chatted at our table with us…I made a comment about Jay being Frankenstein at a venture Lititz party And he went through his phone until he could find pictures to show us he as Frankenstein and Melissa as his bride. It was so sweet that you took The time out of your personal moments to share… jay even gave my son his business card, which he still has it in his wallet.… I just don’t know why this happened to you but I believe in God. My heart is broken and I can’t imagine life without you and your brilliant smile and your joyful spirit. you have left an indelible mark on so many people that you don’t even know, me being one.
Marcia correa

June 05, 2020

I have no words. My husband and I met Melissa & Jay at Bridget’s Steak House in Ambler, Pa at the bar randomly having a drink. They were going to her sisters party. We instantly connected our son was entering Virginia Tech so we made that connection but the main connection was Melissa. She was friendly, vibrant, inviting & just down right cool! We had a great night friended on Facebook & that was it! That was enough she was awesome I looked forward to meeting up again I can’t believe that will not happen now how can that be? Only thing that makes sense is she must be an angel that was needed only way I can process it. I’m so sad for Jay & her family stay strong the short time I knew her that is what she would want. Love, Torrey & Jennifer Bracken

June 04, 2020

My dearest, Marilyn & Herbie,  my heart goes out to you.  I also, know the pain of a child gone before you.  It will be some time before you will be able read, and retain, these words comfort.  We cry for ourselves, for they are with the Lord. 
Janice Hannah Seastream

June 04, 2020

Otto Family,
We struggle to find the words to express how deeply sorry we are for your loss.  We will miss Melissa’s great smile, positive attitude, encouraging words, and genuine love and thoughtfulness.  We will forever treasure the time we spent with her, and our “backyard memories” (there are many!) that only the best of neighbors and friends could share.  The “Ridge” won’t be the same without her!  You are all in our prayers.
All our love,
Dave, Marilyn, Jenna & Derek
 

June 04, 2020

Melissa was the first person I met when i joined BNI many years ago and became an instant friend. She was an amazing person — so full of life and passionate about what she believed. She cared deeply for others and was a true inspiration. Praying for her family and other loved ones. Thank you for making the service available to view online. 
Julie Cleaves

June 04, 2020

Thank you Jay, Sean and Jessica for sharing Melissa with us. Our lives are forever changed by her passion for life, and her fierce love of God.  Although she was the youngest of our “Fab Four” we stand in amazement at the wisdom she imparted to us. We cherish our memories.
Jill Walmer, JoAnne Murphy, Deb Cone Halsey

June 04, 2020

We are so very deeply sorry for the loss of Melissa. We are praying for family and friends during this difficult time. 
Love, The Reynolds Family from LCBC Ephrata campus. 

June 04, 2020

Jay and family, May the Lord’s Blessings of Peace and Comfort be with you and fill you hearts with His Love. Joe and Alison LaFrance

June 04, 2020

Jay and family,
Please know our hearts are breaking for you!
Melissa was a remarkable person and she touched the lives of everyone she met with her zest for life and her love for the Lord!   Heaven gained and angel and she will be missed until we meet again
Brenda and Pat Moran

June 04, 2020

My memories of Melissa are from many years ago shopping with her, Stephanie and our constantly growing families but no matter how many years have passed my love for her and her entire family has never faltered I’m heartbroken by her passing but I know she’s shining down on us in His glory 
Heidi Hall

June 04, 2020

Jay, Sean and Jessica, there are times there are no words that could be said to help ease a friend’s grief or pain, but know that Adrienne and I are here for you in anyway you may need. We will cherish and remember every moment we got to spend with Melissa for she brought a smile to our faces and brought joy into our hearts every moment we had the pleasure of being in her presence. Our hearts break for you and your family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Bless up, Jeff & Adrienne Hughes 

June 04, 2020

Jay, Jessica and Sean, our hearts are breaking for you!  Just know Melissa will be remembered as the wonderful and loving person she was!  She had a way of making everyone she talk to feel special!  Just know how much she will be missed!  Love, thoughts, prayers and lots of hugs and kisses!  Bill and Shirley Flickinger

June 04, 2020

Dear Jay, Sean, Jessica, Marilyn and all – I can only imagine how every breath and moment that has passed this week has been gutwrenchingly painful for you. Melissa has been on my mind continuously. My memories play a slideshow of times shared with her. When I remember how we first met in January 2014 through Shaklee and LCBC, I have to chuckle. We met at a coffee shop to talk business and for someone as reserved as me, Melissa was an intimidating force! Of course, I learned over time that Melissa wasn’t just in the Shaklee business, but rather in the PEOPLE business and she loved as strongly as she challenged. During COVID, she reached out to check on me, which I so appreciated. We chatted and caught up as we always did after too much time between visits passed. And in true Melissa style, her last text was to thank me for being a part of her life and to say “I love you.”  She has taught me so much, including to love hard and live with no regrets. If I can ever take care of you the way she has taken care of me, I will be there for you in an instant. The verse that came to me this week was Nehemiah 8:10 – Don’t be dejected or sad because the JOY of the Lord is your strength. Sending prayers of comfort, peace, and JOY…with great love to all of you – Fawn