Mellie Irene Boykin

Mellie’s lifelong passion was her family and friends—she cherished their company and found joy in spending time with them, whether through shared activities or heartfelt correspondence. Her deep love for plants led her to become a Master Gardener, and she was honored as the first lifetime member of the Douglas County Master Gardeners. She found great fulfillment working in gardens across the county, especially Sweetwater Park, where her efforts left a lasting impression.

A talented baker, she was known for her exceptional breads and rolls, and her creativity extended into beautiful sewing, needlework, drawing, and painting. She gave generously of her time and heart, serving as a C.A.S.A. (Court Appointed Special Advocate), teaching Sunday School, chaperoning field trips with her grandchildren, and volunteering with environmental groups.

Mrs. Boykin is survived by her daughters, Mellie Irene (Johnny Darrell) Chapman of Douglasville, GA, Priscilla Jane Seiter (Neil B. Tau) of Vero Beach, FL, Jamie Samantha (Alfred “Al” Dean) Tong of Canton, GA; siblings, Thom Hollis, Jr. of Moriarty, New Mexico Otelia (David) Stallings of Salt Springs, Fl, and Lucille Elaine (Jackie “Jack”) Houze of Powder Springs, GA; granddaughters, Aubree (James) Magness III of Canton, GA, Erica (Justin) Reece of Canton, GA, Jennifer Marlow (John Peterson III), great grandchildren Rhett Magness IV, Winston Magness, Mellie Marlow, Dahlia Marlow, John Peterson IV, Sylas Peterson, Christopher Reece, Taylor Reece, Jackson Reece, Dillan Reece, Emory Reece and Ella Reece.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, James (Jim) Boykin; brother, Emmett Atkinson Hollis; sister-in-law, Brenda Gail Robertson Hollis and son-in-law, David Seiter.

She was deeply loved, and she will be profoundly missed.

A Celebration of her Life will be held at Sweetwater Creek State Park in the group shelter at 1:00 PM Monday, May 12, 2025. Please ask for directions at the main gate. In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to Master Gardeners of Douglas County, Loving Hands Ministries or Share House of Douglasville.

Whitley Garner at Rosehaven is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements of Mellie Irene Boykin.