Shirley Melton Obituary

Shirley Ann Melton, age 87, of Lakeland, Georgia, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. She was born on April 27, 1938, in Comer, Georgia, to the late Walter Ralph Tucker and Gladys Edith (Black) Tucker. Mrs. Melton was a dedicated and faithful member of Pleasant Way Baptist Church. She devoted many years of service as a secretary at First Baptist Church of Lakeland and was also a skilled seamstress, a trade she practiced with care and pride for many years. Shirley was known for her strong work ethic, gentle spirit, and devotion to her family and church community. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Melton; her daughters, Paula Melton Parrish and Pam Melton; her son, Randy Melton; and her grandson, Nicholas Parrish.

She is survived by her children, Elaine Metts of Lakeland and Mark Melton (Dawn) of Baxley; seven grandchildren, Jessica, Nathan, Beckie, Matthew, Joseph, Richie, and Marley; ten great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Stanley Parrish of Lakeland; her sisters-in-law, Merle Holley and Peggy King of Waycross; a special nephew, Dennis Tiller (Diarene); and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Pleasant Way Baptist Church, 4340 Lakeland Hwy, Naylor, GA with burial following in Burnt Church Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. 

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to Pleasant Way Baptist Church, 4340 Lakeland Hwy, Naylor, GA 31641 or The Gideon Ministries, https://gideons.org/donate. 

Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com. 

The Melton family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Lakeland.