Melissa Hope Reyes

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Melissa Hope Reyes (Outley). Melissa succumbed to complications of a recent surgery on the early morning of Monday December 08, 2025.

She was born on July 28, 1975, in Augusta Georgia to Nancy E. Outley and the late Michael L. Outley. She was born and raised in Augusta, Georgia, and lived a life marked by compassion, strength, and deep devotion to her faith and family. Melissa was very generous and giving to a fault. She was known to overdo any occasion with gifts due to her giving heart.

Melissa is survived by her children: Gabriel Barajas (Jesus Barajas), Daniel Ruiz (Lupe Ruiz), Abigail (“sweet baby angel”), Ricardo and Miguel Reyes (Roberto Reyes); mother: Nancy Outley; sisters: Jennifer Outley and April Young; amor: Mario Sanchez, who was by her side and cared for her during her illness; grandmother: Bobbie Outley; aunt: Gina Lethco; uncle: Monty Outley; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Melissa was preceded in death by her father: Michael Outley; paternal grandfather: Harold Outley; maternal grandparents: Luther and Rachel Youngblood; and aunts: Ruby Ann James, Gail Youngblood, and Sylvia Clark.

Melissa and Teo Estrada, her business partner of 30 years, began Mi Rancho in 1996. Melissa worked hard and was committed to running a successful business. She also leaves behind her employees at Rio Cantina, whom she considered family.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. in the chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors with Pastor J.T. Black officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

We invite all who knew and loved Melissa to join us in honoring her memory.

Due to Melissa’s giving heart and her love for making sure children had a good Christmas, in lieu of flowers you may make a donation to any children’s charity.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com