Melissa “Missi” Magness

Melissa “Missi” Magness passed away on August 28, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the age of 54. Missi was born on July 15, 1972, in Valparaiso, Indiana, to the late Linda & Thomas Christensen. Missi will be remembered as a kind, loving, and giving woman whose greatest joy was found in the people and moments that filled her life with laughter, activity, and love.

Missi graduated from Beech Grove High School in Beech Grove, Indiana, where she loved being part of the high school band where she played the clarinet. She continued her education at IUPUI, earning her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Throughout her life, she carried with her a strong sense of dedication and a love of staying involved, always bringing energy and heart to whatever she did.

For many years, Missi worked as a Loan Closer for Regions Bank, where she met many lifelong friends. Her work ethic was unmatched, and over the years she received multiple awards in recognition of her hard work and dedication. In addition to her full-time job, Missi enjoyed dealing poker on the side when she had extra time, another way she kept herself busy doing something she enjoyed. Missi also gave generously of her time to the Franklin Central Band Program, serving as the events coordinator for the past two years.

Missi’s happiest moments were often the ones spent surrounded by family, especially during the holidays. The louder and crazier the house was, the more she loved it, delighting in the joy of being with her children and family. She was always involved in her children’s school events and especially loved being a “Band Mom.” She also enjoyed playing cards with family and friends, with euchre and canasta among her favorites.

She had a special love for animals, especially her dog, Duke, and her cats, Merlin and Callie. Missi had a generous heart and a caring spirit, always wanting to make sure those around her were happy and well. She leaves behind the memory of a woman who stayed busy, loved deeply, worked hard, and found joy in caring for others.

Missi is survived by her children; Kaley Nieten, Matthew Nieten, Mary Magness, and Kelly Magness, sister; Amy (Bob) Spotts, nieces Emma and Hannah Spotts; and Alec Brooking, Jackson and Lauren McCurdy, and Asher and Weston Bushong, cherished second cousins who held the place of niece and nephews. Missi is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as her ex-husband and friend, Brent Magness and many other beloved friends.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at O’Riley-Branson Funeral Service & Crematory (6107 South East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227) from 4:00-8:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Nativity Catholic Church in Indianapolis (7225 Southeastern Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana 46239) at 11:00am. Burial will immediately follow at Orchard Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Missi’s honor can be made to her children. C/O Amy Spotts, 10341 Sugar Ridge Way, Indianapolis, Indiana 46239.

Melissa “Missi” Magness will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was marked by devotion, warmth, and the simple but lasting gifts of kindness, laughter, and love.

Please visit www.ORileyBranson.com to leave a memory of Missi or to sign our online guest book.