Dr. Melissa "Mel" Davalos-Serna

Melissa "Mel" Davalos-Serna passed away December 9, 2025 in Orem, Utah. Mel was born February 4, 1999 to Jose Alfredo Davalos Encino and Evelia Plascencia Davalos in Pamona, California. Mel was a bright light to all that knew her. A devoted wife, beloved daughter and sister, cherished family member, loyal friend, and compassionate Audiologist. Mel lived a life deeply rooted in her Catholic faith and unwavering love for others. She now rests in the peace of Christ, whom she faithfully served throughout her life.
Mel lived with intention, joy, and determination. Once she set her heart on a goal, she pursued it with strength, perseverance, and grace. She graduated from Texico High School, where she excelled academically and athletically. She attended college at Eastern New Mexico University, graduating with a degree in speech language pathology and went on to attend Texas Tech University where she earned her Doctorate in Audiology. Her calling to serve others led her to specialize in cochlear implants. Mel viewed her profession as a vocation-advocating fiercely for her patients and treating each one with dignity, compassion, and genuine care. She was a proud member of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).
On February 7, 2020, Mel joyfully entered into the Sacrament of Marriage with the love of her life, Tomás "TJ" Serna Jr. Their marriage was a source of deep joy and fulfillment, grounded in faith, companionship, laughter and unconditional love. Together, they shared a life rich in meaningful moments-traveling, discovering new music, watching Harry Potter, adopting animals, and cherishing the quiet blessings of everyday life.
Mel's Catholic faith was the foundation of who she was. A devoted Catholic, she lived her faith openly and faithfully, always carrying a rosary and turning to prayer in all seasons of life. She was actively involved in Fellowship if Catholic University Students (FOCUS) and supported her faith community through service and generosity. Her faith guided her actions, strengthened her during challenges, and shaped her compassionate heart.
Family was central to Mel's life. She treasured time spent with loved ones, especially large family gatherings filled with laughter, food, dancing, and joy. She cherished trips to Mexico to be with family and held a deep love for her nieces and nephews. She delighted in their artwork, displaying it both at work and in her home. She truly cherished the special moments they shared together.
Mel also had a love for the outdoors, enjoying both hiking and fishing with TJ. Mel also enjoyed cuddling up on the couch with her fur babies, which included her two cats named Cannoli, and Pepper, recently joined by their newest edition, this time a puppy, named Hazel.
Those who knew Mel will remember her radiant smile, joyful spirit, and her extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her resilience and strength were recognized through the Audiology Program's Resilience Award, a reflection of her courage, perseverance, and faith-filled life.
Above all, Mel lived a life of love and service. Caring for others was not simply something that she did-it was who she was. Her kindness, generosity, faith, and joyful spirit remain a testament to a life lived for Christ and for others.
Melissa was preceded in death by her grandparents Jesus Davalos and Bartola Encino.
Melissa is survived by her husband, and love of her life, Tomás Serna Jr., her parents: Alfredo and Evelia Davalos, sisters: Bianca Gibbs (Jared), Crystal Leon, Jasmine Davalos, a brother: Alfredo Davalos, nieces and nephews: Adrian, Haylee & Everly Leon, Luka and Harper Gibbs, and Ava & Aria Mazzolini.
With love and gratitude for Mel's life, family and friends are invited to join in prayer and remembrance. Viewing will be held at Steed-Todd Funeral Home on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 from 12:30-5:00p.m. with Rosary beginning at 4:00p.m. Viewing will continue on December 17, 2025 from 12:00p.m. with Rosary beginning at 4:00p.m. On Thursday, December 18, 2025, Rosary will begin at 10:00a.m. followed by the celebration of the Funeral Mass at 10:30a.m., lovingly officiated by Father Angelo Marquez at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church located at 108 N. Davis Street, Clovis, New Mexico 88101. The family is deeply grateful for your presence, prayers, and love during this difficult time.
May her soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.