Virginia Mae Melton

Virginia Mae (Franklin) Melton

In loving memory of Virginia Mae Melton (Franklin), affectionately known as "Virgie," we gather to honor a woman whose life was defined by devotion, resilience, and boundless love. Born February 2, 1949, to Vestina and Roscoe Franklin, Virgie was one of twelve children. From her earliest days, she carried the laughter, strength, and spirit of a large family, a gift she cherished throughout her life. She now reunites with her siblings Oscar, Clyde, Elizabeth, Dewey, Lester, Linda, Betty, Lucille and a stillborn baby sibling, who preceded her in passing, and with her beloved husband, Robert "Bob" Hal Melton, with whom she shared over forty years of unwavering love. Their bond was a testament to love that endured through every season of life.

She is lovingly remembered, and survived by her siblings Johnny Franklin and Barbara Crum, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will forever treasure her memory.

Though Virgie and Bob had no biological children together, their love embraced family without boundaries. Virgie leaves behind her daughter Deborah Franklin Marlow (Chris Young) and her son Keith Norton, as well as her rekindled relationship with her adopted daughter one of triplet sisters separated shortly after birth. That reunion brought Virgie immeasurable joy and healing in her later years.

Her heart overflowed for her grandchildren; Mikala Railene Gifford (Nathan Gifford), Ryan Marlow (Rita Stevenson), and Lea Anna Simms (James Simms) and her great-grandchildren: Jazmine, Julieah, Jacksen Gifford, and Eros Marlow. Each child was a light in her life, and she delighted in watching new generations grow, laugh, and carry forward the love she poured into them.

Virgie found joy in the simple treasures of life: the beauty of the Tennessee mountains she called home, the companionship of her dachshunds and cats, and the warmth of family gatherings where her laughter rang out. She was a woman of strength, whose love was steady and whose presence brought comfort. Her spirit was woven into the very fabric of her family, leaving an imprint that will never fade.

Services will be held at Virgie's family's church; Sherman Hollow Independent Pentecostal Church, in Parrottsville, Tn, on Nov 16, 2025 between 1:30–2:30 p.m. where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Robert "Bob" Melton, united once more in eternal rest.

Visit www.hamlettdobson.com to leave online condolences.