Melanie Ann Smith Gilchrist

Melanie Smith Gilchrist, 63, of Mountain Brook, Alabama went peacefully to be with our Lord on May 3, 2020. She is survived by her husband Ronald Edward Gilchrist and son Patrick Don Gilchrist. Melanie also leaves behind a large extended family including her mother Georgina Smith, brother Don Smith (Vicki), sisters Gina Saab (Peter), Cathy Turner (the late Jon M. Turner), Lisa Sharp and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. She is preceded in death by her father Don Cecil Smith.

In addition to her devotion to her family, Melanie dedicated her life to serving others. She was a beloved teacher at Shades Cahaba Elementary for 35 years where she was named Shades Cahaba Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Melanie was known for her wisdom, loyalty, and sweet demeanor. She always had a smile and lived her life with grace.

She was an active member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church and Our Lady of Fatima Altar Guild. We will celebrate Melanie with a private family service on Thursday, May 7th and with a memorial service for friends and family to follow at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center Colon Cancer Research, or to your favorite charity.

We would like to extend our thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff at UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center for their utmost care and compassion.