Kauaʻi says goodbye to a community champion remembered for her heart

Kaua‘i residents are mourning the loss of Melissa McFerrin Warrack, a longtime community member remembered for her warmth, generosity and years of service to local families and organizations who died on Nov. 7 at age 54.

Warrack was a familiar face at Kukui Grove Center, where she served as Specialty Leasing & Marketing Manager. She also was a member of many organizations, including the Koloa Plantation Days, Hawaiʻi Childrenʻs Theater and the Zonta Club of Kauaʻi.

“Her leadership and dedication guided Koloa Plantation Days for many years,” said a Koloa Plantation Days Facebook post. “She poured her heart into every event, committee meeting, and friendship she made along the way. Her passion for our community and desire to celebrate and preserve its history will never be forgotten.”

The organization said: “She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.”

To honor her contributions, the community will hold a public tribute celebrating her life.

The gathering is scheduled for Thursday from 5-8 p.m. at the Kukui Grove Center in Līhuʻe, where residents will share stories, photographs and memories of her work.

Zonta Club of Kauaʻi colleague, Edie Ignacio Neumiller, said via Facebook: “She was always smiling and positive, keeping the community busy with activities for families at Kukui Grove Center.”

Kauaʻi Family Magazine also shared its condolences on Facebook, calling Warrack a bright light in the theater community.

“She was the driving force behind Hawaiʻi Childrenʻs Theater Academy and Summer Stars, always dreaming of more opportunities for Kaua’i’s keiki and community to shine on stage. Hawaiʻi Childrenʻs Theater was truly her passion — a place where her creativity, joy and belief in the arts touched us all.”

They add that in lieu of flowers, Warrackʻs family asks that donations be made to the Hawaiʻi Children’s Theatre in her honor to continue the programs she loved so much.