Melanie Paige Laughlin (Gates), from Dover, Arkansas, passed away from this world on May 9, 2021 at the young age of 32.  She is now rocking her sweet baby girl Talli Dawn (7/29/2015), who was too precious for this earth in Heaven.  Melanie was born on September 1, 1988 in Little Rock, Arkansas, the daughter of Steven Gates and Deeann Smith.

Melanie was a precious soul who was very loving, compassionate, and giving. Her husband, Chris Laughlin, loved her with everything within him and will miss her dearly.  The love they had for each other was obvious, and you could see it any time you were around them.  They enjoyed riding their side by side together, golfing, fishing, exploring, and traveling.  They had many adventures together in their three short years of marriage.

Melanie overcame many obstacles in her short life.  She was a fighter and extremely strong willed.  She faced challenges many of us will never have to experience, but she did it with dignity and strength only a woman of God could do.  She will be dearly missed by all of her family and friends.

Melanie is survived by her husband Chris Laughlin and furbaby Gemma; her father Steven Gates, mother Deeann Smith.  Grandparents Buell & Gayle Smith, Pam Mascoe, one brother Steven Gates (Nicole) and two neices Mackenzie and Harper Gates, one sister Olivia Gates.  Aunt and Uncles:  Bill & Kay Dickson - Ron Dickson, Randy and Susan Cain (cousins Kassi and Kristin), and numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and many special friends.  Special recognition to Renee and Shelby Eikert, and Candy Lee who were a big part of her life.

Preceded in death by grandmothers: Sondra Crawford and Opal Yielding: Grandfathers Jim Gates and Stanley Mascoe.  Also, by her sweet baby girl Talli Dawn.

Memorial service will be held 2:00PM Saturday, May 15, 2021 at the Laughlin Home, 146 Lakin Lane, Dover, Arkansas 72837 officiated by Justin Brooks.

Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home and River Valley Cremations in Dardanelle. Online Guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com