Melissa Marie (Benn) Johns Melissa Marie Johns, née Benn, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, in Orlando, Florida, after a courageous 4 1/2 year battle with colon cancer. She was 49 years old. Melissa was born on November 16, 1976, in Buffalo, New York, and was raised in Elma, New York by BILL and Carol Benn where she grew up with her older brother Savid.

She graduated from SUNY Geneseo in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in Communications, beginning a successful career in broadcast media that reflected her warm personality and dedication. She began her career at Buffalo’s country music radio station WNUC before joining WIVB Channel 4 in Buffalo as a Sales Assistant. In 2016, Melissa made the courageous decision to begin a new chapter in Orlando, Florida, where she joined WESH Channel 2 as a National Sales Assistant. She valued the friendships she built throughout her career and was respected for her professionalism, kindness, and genuine care for others. 

Melissa met the love of her life, Mark Johns, in December 1996 while they were both working at the McKinley Mall. Their relationship quickly blossomed into a lifelong love story. They were married on May 17, 2002, at Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church and had recently celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary. 

Few things brought Melissa more happiness than Walt Disney World. She treasured every opportunity to stay at the Disney resorts, stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., and spend time in the Magic Kingdom. Disney was her happy place, and she found joy in every visit. Melissa also remained fiercely loyal to her hometown sports teams. Whether cheering on the Buffalo Bills each fall or following the Buffalo Sabres through every season, she never stopped believing that a championship was just around the corner. 

Following her colon cancer diagnosis in 2022, Melissa faced every challenge with remarkable strength, grace, and determination. She became a passionate advocate for colon cancer awareness, encouraging everyone she met to get screened and stressing the importance of early detection. She also proudly supported Wigs for Kids, hoping to bring comfort and confidence to children facing hair loss. 

Above all else, Melissa will be remembered for her kind heart, infectious smile, unwavering optimism, and the love she gave so freely to her family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her courage inspired those around her, and her memory will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched. 

Melissa is survived by her devoted husband of 24 years, Mark Johns. She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, coworkers, and all whose lives were brighter because of her. 

In accordance with Melissa’s wishes, no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Melissa’s memory are encouraged to schedule their recommended colon cancer screening and consider making a donation to Wigs for Kids in her honor. 

Though she is no longer with us, Melissa’s love, strength, laughter, and beautiful spirit will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.