Obituary of Andrew and Melissa Babbitt

Andrew John and Melissa Lien Babbitt, of Silver Springs, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, January 31st, 2023.

Andy was born in Oswego, New York, on May 28, 1966. Andy moved to Freeport, Maine, when he was 6 years old. He attended and graduated from Freeport High School in Freeport. Andy and his family moved to Ocala, Florida in 1985. Andy worked in the construction industry while studying and taking examinations to become a certified building inspector licensed by the State of Florida. The City of Ocala employed Andy and was later promoted to Chief Building Official. Andy and Melissa also utilized their Contractor’s License to create and operate an LLC for the development of residential properties.

Melissa Babbitt was born in Panama City, Florida, on December 8th, 1974. She attended and graduated from Forest High School in Ocala, Florida, and later earned her undergraduate degree in Finance from the University of Central Florida. After college, Melissa and her mom, Lan Plunkett, partnered in a mortgage business. Melissa later opened her own bookkeeping business.

Melissa and Andy were married on October 18, 2008, they are survived by their children; Amy Babbitt, Ashley Peebles, Andrew Babbitt, and William Benton, grandchildren; Roman and Logan, sisters Cindy Babbitt and Debby Wickham and special great nephew Christopher Babbitt. Lifetime friends from Maine, Will, and Brian. Andy was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Shirley Babbitt, and his brother Tim Babbitt. Melissa is also survived by her father, R. Jeff Andrews; mother, Lan Plunkett; and brother, Jeffrey Andrews, as well as a large and loving extended family.

Andy loved his family and loved to share his happiness. Melissa loved her family and loved life! She is well-known for her extreme kindness and a huge heart for helping and loving others. Her life is a beautiful example for others to emulate. Her constant smile and joyful countenance will be missed by her family and a legion of friends and acquaintances. Andy and Melissa spent many evenings in the Patriots’ Pavilion at their home, enjoying a fire and watching his favorite NFL team. Whether planned or impromptu, many times, hosting a get-together to share the time with family and friends.

A memorial service for both Andy and Melissa will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2023, at the First Presbyterian Church in Ocala, Florida. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ocala Humane Society.