Melanie Ann Earhart

1946 - 2022

Melanie Ann Earhart was granted her angel wings January 28, 2022. Family and friends surrounded her during her final days, just as they had all her life. Melanie was born in New Orleans on September 11, 1946, and was a longtime resident of the Crescent City, Chalmette, Louisiana and Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. A graduate of St. Maurice Parochial School and Chalmette High School, her professional career included working at both Canal Barge Company and Pontchartrain Materials Corporation. Her most cherished role was that of mother. She was extremely proud of her daughter and son, whom she considered her greatest accomplishments. Melanie is survived by her children Timothy Earhart Rodrigue and Tara O'Neil Rodrigue ("Jeffie" Combe), her grandson Benjamin "Bman" Rodrigue, loving sister Lezette Earhart, numerous cousins whom she loved deeply and an abundance of friends from her memorable life. She was preceded in death by her father, Fred Alfred Earhart, and her mother, Eugenia Hirschey Earhart. Lovingly known as "Bud" to many, Melanie never met a stranger and made everyone feel special with hugs and kisses. Always the life of the party, she danced to the beat of her own drum and was typically the last one to leave the dance floor. Melanie's family and friends will miss her caring nature, cooking, laughter and the utterances of "Melanie-isms" that were guaranteed to leave those who heard them puzzled, laughing hysterically and, often times, both. The family expresses its thanks to family and friends for their tremendous support, endless love and prayers. Additionally, the family will forever be grateful to Michelle Mizell and Melanie's care teams at St. Anthony's Gardens and Forest Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation. A private celebration of Melanie's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who knew her to consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association in her memory. Donations can be made at alz.org or by calling 1-800-272-3900.