Influencer and photographer Melissa Mae Carlton is grieving after losing two daughters within a year: her eldest, 9-year-old Abigail, died of sepsis in 2024, and her younger daughter Molly died on Christmas 2025 after what the family says was a sudden cardiac arrest tied to a suspected genetic heart condition.

  • Who: Melissa Mae Carlton — influencer and photographer.
  • Abigail: Age 9; died in 2024 from sepsis.
  • Molly: Younger daughter; died on Christmas 2025 after sudden cardiac arrest.
  • Medical status: Doctors reported a suspected genetic heart condition for Molly; family awaits further genetic investigation and official findings.
  • Family: Melissa and husband Tom Carlton have four children; the family has been publicly processing both losses.

The Details

Melissa and husband Tom Carlton, childhood friends who later married, shared their lives openly online as Melissa built a following for her family-centered photography and social media storytelling. In 2024 the couple suffered the devastating loss of their daughter Abigail, who died at age nine after developing sepsis — a life‑threatening reaction to infection. On Christmas 2025 the family was struck again when Molly unexpectedly passed away. While Melissa has not posted a formal medical report, she wrote that doctors had told the family Molly had a genetic heart condition and that a minor illness can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest.

The Legacy

Melissa Mae Carlton was best known for:

  • Her work as a photographer capturing family and lifestyle moments.
  • Building a devoted Instagram following with candid parenting and family stories.
  • Collaborations and content that centered on motherhood, childhood and creative family photography.

Family Statements & Next Steps

In an emotional Instagram post Melissa said she finds a small comfort in believing Molly will be reunited with Abigail in heaven. She revealed the family has not yet received a definitive medical diagnosis for Molly’s death and that a genetic investigation is planned. Melissa described how her son Harry, while crying, told her that on December 21, 2025, Molly had told him she wanted to be with her sister Abi — and, through tears, Harry said, “She got what she wanted.” The family has said they are seeking clearer answers from medical tests and specialists.

Social Proof

Tributes and condolences poured in on Melissa’s social channels as followers, fellow creators and members of the online parenting community expressed shock and heartbreak. Comments and messages praised the family’s openness and offered support, while many urged respect for the family’s privacy as they await further medical information and grieve their losses.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Melissa Mae Carlton, Tom Carlton and their children. The family has asked for privacy as they pursue answers and heal from this unimaginable double loss.

Image Referance: https://www.bollywoodshaadis.com/articles/melissa-mae-carltons-daughters-death-reason-72983