Madeline Melton

MADELINE K. MELTON, BS, MA

July 5, 1944 - February 13, 2026

Madeline K. Melton, age 81, peacefully transitioned to eternal rest on February 13, 2026. A woman of quiet

strength, grace, and unwavering faith. Madeline lived a life devoted to service, family, education, and

community uplift.

Born on July 5, 1944, Madeline was the eldest daughter of Milton and Pauline Rhodes Kendrick. Raised

alongside her sisters in a loving and supportive family, she developed the determination, compassion, and

strong faith that would guide her throughout her life.

Madeline accepted Christ at an early age while atending Leland Baptist Church. Her faith remained a

constant foundation throughout her life and was reflected in her devoted church involvement and service to

others. The remainder of her journey to adulthood led to her attending Oak Drive A.M.E. Church, where

she served on the Announcements Commitee.

Madeline earned her undergraduate degree in business from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, and

later completed graduate studies at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant, solidifying her path in

business and leadership.

She began her professional career at Chrysler Corporation, where she worked across multiple sectors,

including Chrysler Financial and the Insurance Division. Her passion for helping others ultimately led her to

become a State Farm Insurance agency owner in New Haven, Connecticut.

During her time in Connecticut, Madeline was a faithful member of United Methodist Church of Trumbull.

After returning to Michigan, she continued her spiritual journey at Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church, serving on

the Hospitality Commitee, and later worshiped at Bethel A.M.E. Church, where she was a commited

participant. She openly proclaimed her love for Christ and lived her faith through service, kindness, and

generosity.

After several successful years, Madeline returned to Michigan with her husband, Jarvis Melton. Together,

they opened super value cleaners and co-founded the nonprofit organization Community For Al, through

which they provided scholarships to graduating high school seniors in the Washtenaw County area-reflecting

Madeline's deep belief in the power of education and opportunity.

Madeline was known as a self-assured, soft-spoken woman with a gentle spirit who found joy in life's quiet and

meaningful moments. She loved home décor and decorating, enjoyed reading, took pride in gardening, and

found peace in listening to jazz music. She was also a devoted sports fan who folowed games with enthusiasm

and joy, often sharing that excitement with family and friends.

She was a devoted wife, a proud mother of twin daughters, and an adoring grandmother of two. Madeline

leaves behind cherished memories of joy, laughter, family gatherings, and love.

Madeline leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband of 45 years, Jarvis (Jay) Melton; her children

Rhonie McBery (Sonny), Robin Brown (Eric) and Gerald Robinson (Karen); grandchildren Eric Melton and

Delaney McBery; her siblings Patricia Howard (George), Paula K. Carter (Chester), and Rose Marie Harrel;

along with nieces, nephews, and cousins of the Kendrick and Rhodes families. Also a host of extended

spiritual family including life long friends Jim and Marla Thrower, God sisters Bety Oliver and Suzon Teal,

God sons Keifer Oliver and Dr. Derrick Gragg and cherished friends.

Madeline's life stands as a testament to faith, family, leadership, and service. Her legacy of love, generosity,

warmth, and quiet strength wil live on in the hearts of al who knew her.