

She was born on June 26, 1946, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late David Hernandez and Alma Mae Hernandez. Lucille’s life began with a remarkable story—she was delivered at home by her mother, a testament to the strength and resilience that would define her life.
Lucille was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and caregiver whose life centered around love, family, and service to others. She was married to the love of her life, Jackie Ray Melton Sr., whom she met in 1971. Their bond was unbreakable, and after his passing, Lucille remained devoted to him, never seeking another love.
Known affectionately as “The Snickerdoodle Mama,” Lucille was a gifted baker whose kitchen was the heart of her home. She was famous for her snickerdoodle cookies and her from-scratch biscuits, which she lovingly made for her grandchildren each week. Anyone who walked through her door knew to head straight to the kitchen, where something warm and delicious was always waiting—especially a fresh batch of biscuits on the stove.
Lucille had a nurturing spirit that extended far beyond her immediate family. She was “Nanny” not only to her seven grandchildren but to many others who were welcomed into her home and heart. Her house was rarely quiet, often filled with the laughter and presence of grandchildren and friends spending the night. She found her greatest joy in caring for others, whether it was her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, or loved ones in need.
Her life was marked by selflessness. She served as a caregiver to her mother-in-law and later to her beloved husband, always putting others before herself. Even in her quiet moments, Lucille enjoyed crossword puzzles, variety puzzles, sewing, and embroidery—simple joys that reflected her thoughtful and creative nature.
Lucille was a beautiful and wonderful woman, deeply loved by many and remembered for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family.
She is preceded in death by her parents, David and Alma Mae Hernandez; her beloved husband, Jackie Ray Melton Sr.; her stepson, Jackie Ray Melton Jr.; her grandson, Scott Ray Melton; her sisters, Brenda and Janie; and her brother, Bill.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Tammi McGuffin (Chris); her son, Bradley Melton; her stepdaughter, Angie Johnson (Phil); her grandchildren, Jennifer Stanley (Carl), Dylan Falls, Kyla Falls, Brandon Vasser, Joey Grant (Megan), Haley Melton, Katlyn Nolan (Keagan) and Tyler Manns(Kayla); and her cherished great-grandchildren, Bryson and Addyson Stanley, Wyatt, Charlotte, and Hudson Poole, along with several other great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by her sisters, Ella Gibson (Gene) and Lois Kirkpatrick (Butch), as well as many nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close.
Lucille’s legacy lives on through the love she gave so freely, the lives she nurtured, and the memories created around her kitchen table. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Visitation of Family and Friends will be held at Horis A. Ward - Fairview Chapel | 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281, on March 23, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will also take place at Horis A. Ward - Fairview Chapel at 1:00 pm. Services will conclude with a Graveside Committal Service at Fairview Memorial Gardens | 164 Fairview Road, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281 at approximately 2:00 pm.
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