Alyssa Anne Maher

Alyssa Anne Maher, 20, was tragically taken from us too soon after a senseless act of violence on Tuesday, November 14th, 2023. Born in Des Moines on July 12th, 2003, Alyssa was raised by her mother, Melanie Maher, alongside older sister, Gabrielle (Wilson) Marshall.

Alyssa loved people unconditionally, especially her older sister Gabrielle, who she looked up to more than anyone. Alyssa also loved spending quality time with her aunt, Shelley, and her late Aunt Stephanie, and the three of them frequently took road trips out of town to sight see and visit other family members. But one of Alyssa’s favorite pastimes was biking anywhere and everywhere with her mom, Melanie. And in the fall she could be found attending a home Iowa State Cyclone game with her mom, uncles, and cousins.

Alyssa’s love knew no bounds and was the ultimate example of selfless love. She put everyone and everything before herself. Alyssa was a friend to all, graciously spreading her genuine love, innocent heart, and creative spirit to anyone who crossed her path. If the grocery store clerk had nice hair, Alyssa let them know. She was never short on compliments. There is no denying that above all else, Alyssa loved people.

But Alyssa’s love wasn’t just reserved for people; Alyssa loved animals. Especially her family dog, Ben, and her adored cat, Lucy. She was also fond of Riley, her Aunt Shelley’s cat and Chiquita, her late Aunt Stephanie’s dog. All these animals shared the privilege of being loved by Alyssa.

Alyssa was also a creative through and through, always choosing to express herself through visual and literary arts. It was not uncommon for her to write her own songs and to perform them in front of family and friends. When not singing and dancing, she could be found drawing and writing poems, all of which were an insight into her own heart.

Alyssa saw the world in different ways than others; she marched to the beat of her own drum and was proud to do so. She was continually working hard to improve her own well-being, advocating for herself and others, and always helping those going through similar walks of life. Alyssa was a fighter, enduring some of life’s greatest challenges. Yet even with all she overcame she was met with the most unfortunate fate: a beautiful, young life stolen from this world and her family, far too soon and without warning. Despite her unfortunate departure, her mother, Melanie, and her sister, Gabrielle, want Alyssa to always be remembered for her immeasurable strength and unending love.

Alyssa is preceded in death by her Grandparents, Dan and Patricia Maher; Aunt, Stephanie Maher; Aunt, Becky Maher; Uncle, Dick Chambers; and cousin, Gunnar Mikesell.

Alyssa is survived by her mother, Melanie Maher, sister Gabrielle (Tyler) Marshall, and a plethora of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Friday, November 24th from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home on Hickman Road in Urbandale. Her funeral will be held Saturday, November 25th at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Des Moines.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations in Alyssa’s name to NAMI, the National Alliance of Mental Illness. NAMI is dedicated to improving the lives of millions of Americans affected by mental illness through ongoing awareness, education, and advocacy efforts. Online condolences may be expressed at www.caldwellparrish.com.