Melinda Jane Cockrell (Lanning), 43, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday June 8, 2021 in Reidsville, North Carolina of an accidental overdose. She was born on October 1, 1977 in Columbus, Ohio.
Mindy is survived by her loving parents, Robert and Laura Lanning, children, Alissa, Addison and Anthony Shinn, siblings, Michael Lanning, Laura (Tim) Fuller, and Christina Erdel, grandchildren, Rosealina and Nathaniel Coleman, many nieces and nephews and her beloved furry companion Brooklyn.
Mindy struggled through her life with addiction. Many times she found the strength and found sobriety. During her times of sobriety, she inspired and helped many others. She volunteered at her church and was involved in the Prison ministry. Sadly, in the end Mindy was not able to save herself.
We choose not to remember the dark times, but to remember the courageous outspoken beauty that was Mindy.
A Celebration of life will be held on Friday July 9, 2020 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Canal Winchester Community Center, 22 Trine St. Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110.
In remembrance of Mindy's life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Maryhaven Columbus, 1791 Alum Creek Dr., Columbus, Ohio 43207.
