Melanie Elizabeth Dunbar

Melanie Elizabeth Dunbar, age 57, of Lexington, South Carolina, passed away on March 7, 2024, in Columbia, South Carolina. Melanie was born on October 28, 1966, in Lexington, South Carolina.

Melanie was a force of nature, packed into a tiny body. She was known for her loving and gregarious personality, always willing to go into battle for those she cared about, compassion for those around her even if she didn't know them and her mad basketball skills. But not culinary prowess. Melanie's career was long and diverse, ranging from being a school bus driver and waitress (although not at the same time), to enforcing licensing regulations at SCDOT and fighting the good fight at Nelson Mullins. She was cherished by her colleagues at every workplace.

Melanie is survived by the loves of her life: her sons Garrett Herron of Fort Carson and Cooper Herron of Fort Liberty. She is also survived by her father Glenn Dunbar of Columbia, siblings Kimberly Dunbar of Summerville, Todd Dunbar of Lexington, and Susan Dunbar of Lexington, niece Taylor Rhett of Summerville, and nephew Jacob Dunbar of Lexington. She will not be forgotten.

Melanie was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Todd Dunbar, who absolutely adored her. Sorry, Mom! We tried to keep her out of your hair as long as possible, but she's your problem now.

Family and friends are planning a celebration of Melanie's life in the near future. She was her younger sister's hero growing up so planning a tribute befitting Melanie takes time. Contributions in her memory can be made in her honor to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation at https://pkdcure.org/

Rest in peace, Melanie. Your loving spirit and ability to find humor and help others laugh in the face of adversity will be deeply missed by all who knew you. Everyone can honor her memory by living life with an open heart and mind, and kindness to yourself and one another.