Melody Ann Jelinek

Mrs. Melody Ann Jelinek (née Renfro) of Charlotte, North Carolina died Tuesday, May 16, 2023 in Charlotte after battling various long-term ailments that just wore her body out. She was born July 22, 1960 in Endicott, NY, the youngest daughter of Stanley Renfro and Eunice Coopper Renfro.

Melody attended Union-Endicott High School in Endicott NY, and then Broome Community College in Binghamton, NY.

After completing her education, Mel worked in several fields. Early in her work life Mel was certified by the military to solder, inspect and repair circuit boards for equipment including the F-18 fighter jet. She left that field due to over-exposure to various chemicals associated with cleaning of the boards. Mel then transitioned to retail sales in a jewelry store specializing in diamonds. She especially loved the beautiful diamonds and rubies and enjoyed making customers happy with lovely jewelry.

Mel moved to Charlotte with her husband and family in 1986 so that he could advance his career. For many years she worked as head bookkeeper and customer service representative for various grocery store chains and businesses. Due to her deteriorating health, she retired early to concentrate on raising her children and grandchildren.

Mel adored young children. She had a special way with them which they loved. Many children and teenagers saw her as a second mom and a safe person. Mel would say she was compelled by her faith in Christ to be there for these young people. She was not afraid to “tell it like it is” while helping them.

Mel valued true friendship, and her friends knew she was genuine and loyal. In addition, Mel enjoyed a good cup of coffee before reading, doing puzzles, games, or watching television- including cartoons.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, John; son, Jake Jelinek (Nicole); daughters, Sara Jelinek and Ally Belton (Jacob); grandchildren, Karissa, Lily, Emilia, Isaiah and Isabela; brothers, Mike Renfro (Kelly), Mark Renfro (Pam) and Marty Renfro (Liz); sister, Marilyn Renfro McNaughton; sister in-law, Nancy Johnson (Jim) and mother-in-law, Elva Jelinek.

A large extended family will lovingly remember Mel including many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Mitch Renfro, brother-in-law, Steve Jelinek, and father-in-law, Robert Jelinek.

A service to celebrate the life of Mel will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, May 27, 2023 at Forest Lawn West Funeral & Cremation Service, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC. Visitation, 1:00 PM until the time of service at the funeral home. Condolences may be expressed at www.forestlawnwest.com.