Melissa Cocci Luckett died peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, at her home in Washington, DC, on June 20, 2026. She was 57. She was the beloved wife of 22 years of Christopher Michael Luckett, and the loving mother of their children, Arden Caroline Luckett and Davis Christopher Luckett.

Born in Philadelphia in 1968, Melissa was the adored, only child of Edmond Cocci and Barbara Gilfert Cocci. She graduated from Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and earned her Juris Doctor from Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio. She worked in state government and as a corporate attorney in Columbus where she met her husband, Chris. In 2002 they relocated to Washington, DC, and in 2006 Melissa joined the law firm of Tenenbaum & Saas, where she practiced real estate law for 20 years, fostering deep confidence and trust among her colleagues and clients.

Outside of work, Melissa believed that the friends she chose should be as close as family. She spent her entire life tending friendships that sustained her, creating circles of belonging in Philadelphia, Columbus, and her treasured Mount Pleasant neighborhood in Washington, DC. She nurtured each relationship with intention, refusing to let any be eroded by distance or time. In her final years, as her people gathered around her, those circles overlapped in ways that were profound - a beautiful reflection of her fierce and unwavering loyalty.

Melissa had wonderfully strong convictions. Her sharp wit, quick mind, and clear values made for ceaselessly engaging conversations. By insisting that things be done in a particular way, Melissa showed others how to find their own voice.

In addition to Chris, Arden, and Davis, Melissa is survived by Aunts Erma Cocci Sobol, Fernanda Cocci Unabia, and Diane C. Panza-DeLuca, sisters-in-law Karen Limbert, Rebecca Luckett, and Robyn Mackey, parents-in-law Mike and Aimee Luckett, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Melissa is also survived by Cecilia Marquez, whose 19 years working with the Luckett family have made her not just a cherished presence in their home, but a member of their family in the truest sense.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, July 1st at 11:00 am at St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, 4201 Albemarle Street NW, Washington, DC. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Melissa’s name to Thrive DC, 1525 Newton St. NW, Washington, DC 20010, or any local charity working to end hunger and homelessness.