Jane Stevens Melton's Obituary
Jane Claire Stevens Melton passed away on Friday, July 14 at the age of 93. Jane was born in Memphis, TN on January 9, 1930 to Frank Warren Stevens Sr. and Laura Grogan Stevens both of whom preceded her in death. She was the eldest of five siblings: the late Frank Jr. (Judy), the late Robert, the late Ronald (Glenda Jo) and Linda Scott. Once she married, her husband’s siblings and their spouses became like her own: the late Charles Melton (Elaine), Gloria Jones (the late Frank Jones).
Jane was married for 62 years to the love of her life Glendell Doyle Melton who preceded her in death. They had four sons: Stevens (Melissa), David (Jan), Paul (the late Songai), Dale (Vonda). She had six grandchildren who adored their “Mamaw Jane”: Mary Claire, John (Bekka), Scott (Laura), Ben (Morgan), Landon and Christian, as well as two great-grandchildren: Isabella Jane and Everett. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews she loved.
She graduated from the Deshazo College of Music in 1949 with a certificate in Piano and Music Theory, then Memphis State University in 1953 with a degree in Education. She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority where she made life long, cherished friends. After her graduation she went on to be a teacher for two years before deciding to become a homemaker and raise her sons. Playing the piano was a passion she enjoyed her whole life.
Jane was a true caregiver in every sense of the word. Whether it was caring for ailing relatives, volunteering for Church Women United in their prison ministry or being an active member of Galloway UMC and St. Timothy UMC, she found immense joy from giving to others. So many of her friendships stemmed from these groups she loved – including 50 years in the same bunco group and years participating in the Beethoven Club.
There’s no way to put into words what a wonderful life she lived and the impact she had. She filled up spaces in each of our hearts that make her impossible to replace. We find comfort in knowing that each of us will carry a piece of her with us forever.
Visitation with be at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Sunday, July 23 from 4-6 pm and Monday, July 24 from 9-10 am. The funeral service is on Monday, July 24 from 10-11 am with a reception afterwards. A committal will follow the reception. Memorials can be given to Memphis Union Mission, Church Health Center and Golden Cross Ministries
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