Larissa Wells Messer, age 40, of Atkinson passed peacefully from her earthly life to her eternal rest on Sunday, February 6, 2011 at her home surrounded by loving family.

She was born July 13, 1970 in Wilmington to Pearlene Wells of Burgaw and the late Leonard Wells.

Surviving in addition to her mother are her devoted husband, James "Flip" Messer; children, Amber Messer of Rocky Point, Torrey Messer and Drew Messer both of the home; sisters, Wanda Genes (Ronald) and Leona Baird (Jeff) both of Burgaw; brother, Glen Wells (Kim) of Castle Hayne; her cousins who were close as sisters, Kelly Casteen and Angie Casteen and many extended family and friends.

Larissa attended Herrings Chapel United Methodist Church.

Larissa was a devoted wife and loving daughter, mother, sister and friend. She found great joy in the simplest of things, but her greatest joy was family. Larissa loved the beach, sunshine, the river and all of God's wondrous nature. Her sweet spirit and joyful laughter will be missed, but never forgotten. Larissa's family is grateful to God for her life, for your friendship and for your kindness and prayers.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with the Rev. William Hill Pearsall officiating. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park.

Casketbearers will be Craig Brown, Mark wells, Wesley Johnson, George Hubbard, Jimmy Bowden and Scott Furr.

The family will receive friends 6 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw and at other times at the home of Flip and Larissa Messer.

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