Melissa Riopka, a well-known former news anchor in Alabama, passed away last Saturday following a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia. She was 48 years old.
Alabama.com reported that Riopka had a distinguished career in journalism, with her most notable work taking place at WHNT 19 in Huntsville, where she became a trusted and familiar face in the community.
Originally from Cullman, Alabama, Riopka's journey in broadcasting began after she attended the University of Alabama.
Before joining WHNT 19, she worked at various news stations in both Chattanooga and Birmingham, further building her reputation as a dedicated journalist.
In 2013, Riopka began her role at WHNT 19 in Huntsville as a morning reporter. Her talent and dedication quickly earned her recognition, and by 2015, she was promoted to co-anchor the weekday 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. newscasts alongside Jerry Hayes, a long-time anchor at the station.
Later, she transitioned to the morning newscast, where she worked with Steve Johnson, further cementing her place as one of the most beloved figures in Huntsville's news media.
Riopka’s presence on air made her a reliable source of news for many in the community, and her contributions extended beyond her work at the anchor desk.
Beyond her journalistic career, Melissa Riopka was heavily involved in her community. She worked with several local organizations, including the Better Business Bureau and Make-a-Wish Foundation, where she dedicated her time and efforts to making a difference in the lives of others.
Her commitment to these causes reflected her deep-rooted connection to the Huntsville community, where she became known for her warmth and compassion.
Her departure from WHNT 19 came on March 22, after years of contributing to the station’s success. Her decision to leave the station preceded the final months of her battle with leukemia.
Riopka is survived by her husband and two children, who now mourn the loss of a loving wife and mother. Her passing leaves a void not only in her family but also in the lives of those who worked alongside her and the many viewers who followed her career.
Tributes poured in from colleagues and friends who had the opportunity to know and work with Riopka. Jason Simpson, chief meteorologist at WVTM 13 in Birmingham, reflected on the sudden nature of her passing.
"This week, I was driving through Cullman and thought about my old friend. I wondered how she was doing, thought about some of the time we spent together over the years, and never once thought that by Saturday she would be gone," Simpson said.
Simpson went on to share how Melissa Riopka’s character shined through, even in difficult times. "Melissa was a light. There’s no doubt about that. She was always an encourager even when she was discouraged in herself. She poured herself out for her family that she loved dearly, and now she can rest," he added.
Her influence reached beyond the newsroom and into the hearts of her colleagues and viewers, many of whom remember her for her professionalism and kindness.
Riopka’s death marks the end of a career that impacted not only the field of journalism but also the community she served.
Her presence on the airwaves, coupled with her commitment to civic organizations, demonstrated a deep sense of responsibility to the people of Huntsville and beyond.
As friends, family, and viewers mourn her loss, they also celebrate a life filled with purpose and service. Riopka’s legacy as a dedicated journalist and community member will continue to inspire those who knew her.
Riopka’s passing leaves an indelible mark on Alabama’s journalistic landscape. The dedication she showed to her craft and her community remains a testament to her character and the impact she made throughout her career.
Her family, friends, and colleagues are left to carry on the memory of a woman who gave so much to those around her.
