MELTON, Mary, On August 16, 1939, Mary Francis Andrews Melton, with a flair befitting her future impact on the lives of so many, arrived as the only child of Ralph and Isabel Andrews. Mary was fiercely proud of her Armenian heritage and would not hesitate to tell you so. With her love of all things beautiful, Mary recreated images of nature and real life in various media: oil on canvas, watercolor, encaustic, print making and the list goes on. Her love for art, no matter what kind, led her into educational pursuits with Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond Metropolitan Art Association and she was able to continue to strengthen her talent at Westminster Canterbury, where she taught and provided private lessons. Mary was also a member of the Ginter Park Garden Club, where her artistic talents were demonstrated in floral designs for their monthly meetings. Mary married her soulmate, Nelson, on September 11, 1955. For 66 years, they expressed their love for each other by finding common interests: art, snow skiing, traveling, to mention a few. Mary always had her eyes wide open while traveling and many times, she would stop to paint or take a picture of a scene to be used later. Most of all, Mary and Nelson shared a love for family, raising five children, David (Susie), Billy (Teresa), Timothy, Jennifer Honings (Ken) and Stephen (Lisa). They were further blessed and received great joy spending time with their 11 grandchildren, Andrew, Brittany, Chris, Brad, Jacob, Caroline, Danielle, Diana, Dani, Logan and Conner. As the joy continued, they were blessed with six great-grandchildren, Carter, Chase, Trevor, Colby, Kohen and Fariah. Mary's love was expressed faithfully to all her family and friends. Late during the evening of January 17, 2022, Mary reached out and clasped the hand of her Lord. Mary, rest in peace. A private service for the family will be held. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Association. At a later date, a Celebration of Life service will be held for friends and family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.woodyfuneral

homeparham.com for the Melton family.

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Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch from Jan. 21 to Jan. 23, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Mary Melton

Sponsored by Woody Funeral Home Parham - Richmond.

15 Entries

Sara Linda Poly

January 15, 2023

I remember so many wonderful times with Mary, she was so dear and creative in many ways. I'll always cherish the memories of the time I spent with this lovely woman painting, laughing, and working together. Sending love and blessings to Nelson and all of her family. Sara Linda Poly

Sara Linda Poly

January 22, 2022

To the Melton family:
My heart goes out to Nelson and to Mary's family for the loss of this lovely, wonderful and spirited woman. Mary and I had many beautiful times together painting and became good friends over the years. She organized workshops for me in Richmond, which, with Nelson's help, were very successful. We had so much fun. Mary just overflowed with so much creativity! I have one of her paintings that I see every day which brings her presence to my home. She had a lovely sense of beauty, love of the arts and a heart brimming over with love. I so treasured her friendship and her kindness. I will miss her very much.
Love to all, Sara Linda Poly

Steve Ferretti

January 22, 2022

Mary was one of the most talented and personable fellow artists I have met here is Richmond. I will truly miss seeing her and having a lively conversation with her at artist association meetings. The artwork I own created by Mary will continue to be a treasured special addition to my collection. My sincerest condolences to her entire family and her many friends. We will all miss her.

Dee Conwell Irwin

January 22, 2022

My love to Nelson and the entire Melton family. So sorry to see this news about beautiful, vivacious, considerate Mary.

Fran Thomas

January 22, 2022

Dear Melton family,
The times I got to spend with Mary were some of my most cherished memories. Her energy, curiosity and spirit of adventure were always present. It was a privilege to have known her and all of you if not personally then through hearing her speak about her beloved family.

Dottie Figg

January 21, 2022

I had such a good time on ski trips with Mary and "our ski group". She was a beautiful lady.
Sympathy and love,
Dottie

Dereck Rossi

January 21, 2022

Many fond memories of Mrs Melton while our families grew up together. A very special person indeed, with never a harsh word. May God rest her soul and put her in a special place amongst the angels

Kimberly Heindl

January 21, 2022

My Mary the joy of our Lord amongst he heavenly gardens. Her love of floral arrangements was often expressed at our garden club monthly meetings. She had a fascinating life. My late Mother and I found conversations with her to be easy and engaging.

You have my deepest sympathy at this time of loss. I pray you
will find comfort in your memories of Mary.
With much affection

Candace Young

January 21, 2022

I had the honor of teaching two of Mary's children, Jenny and Stephen. She was a joy to work with as a parent and room mother. Her family was blessed to have her and will miss her dearly.

Lucy & Bobby Moore

January 21, 2022

So very sorry ... such a beautiful earthly life gone ..
but oh the LOVE and footprints left behind for all
the family and those who knew her ...

Veronica and Jerry Wauford

January 21, 2022

It was our pleasure to have Mary pass through our lives. Always a smile on her face and caring attitude. Please accept our sincere sympathy.

Debbie and John Norwood

January 21, 2022

So very sorry for your loss. Praying for your family. (Debbie went to High School with Billy and Teresa)

Diana Rupert Livingston

January 21, 2022

A world without Mary in it, is a sad world, indeed. I send loving thoughts to dear Nelson and to Mary's large and wonderful family.

Deborah Pollard

January 21, 2022

Scott and I send our deepest sympathy for the loss of such a beautiful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Mom Mary has truly left a void in this world, but heaven has gained an angel.
May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Fay Wilcox

January 21, 2022

A lovely lady. So sorry for your loss. Sending prayers for the family

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