Released on Netflix on December 19th, 2024, Virgin River season 6 delved deeper into Mel’s family history. The season covered key storylines, including Preacher’s murder trial, Mel and Jack’s long-awaited wedding, and Mel’s reconnection with her biological father, Everett.
With Mel learning more about her father, the series also revealed details about her mother, Sarah. Despite the new insights, questions about Sarah’s past and what ultimately happened to her remain partially unanswered, leaving fans eager for more information.
Mel’s Mother Died Before the Events of Virgin River—Cause Still Unknown

From the very first season of Virgin River, it was clear that Mel had endured significant tragedies, including the death of her husband, the stillbirth of her first child, and the loss of her mother, Sarah. Season 6 provided more insight into Sarah’s life, but the cause of her death remains unknown.
The show’s portrayal of Sarah differs from the Virgin River books, where Mel’s parents are not central to the story. While the books shift focus between different characters in each installment, the series emphasizes Mel and Jack’s arc, giving more weight to her parents’ backstory and adding emotional depth to the show.
Mel’s Parents’ Complicated Past: How She Met Her Biological Father

Virgin River expands on Mel’s backstory more than the books, particularly regarding her parents. In season 5, Mel discovers that the man who raised her is not her biological father; her real father is revealed to be Everett.
Season 6 delves deeper into Sarah and Everett’s history through flashbacks. The two meet when Sarah is hitchhiking and Everett gives her a ride, sparking instant chemistry. They part ways when Sarah attends a protest, but later reconnect after the tragic death of Mel’s sister (before Mel was born), leading to Mel’s conception. Despite this, Sarah decides not to share custody with Everett and keeps the truth from Mel about her parentage.
Virgin River Prequel Could Finally Explain Mel’s Mother’s Death

Virgin River season 6 left many questions about Mel’s mother, Sarah, unanswered. The upcoming prequel series, focusing on Sarah and Everett’s love story, will likely explore why Sarah kept Mel from Everett and may finally reveal how she died.
Alternatively, season 7 of the main series could address these questions as the show continues to expand beyond the events of the books, exploring entirely new storylines surrounding Sarah’s life and death.