Melanie Anne Newton

Melanie Newton

December 21, 1935 - June 2, 2015

Melanie Newton who lived 79 years on this earth, was finally called Home on Tuesday, June 2, 2015. Her loving husband, Dale Newton, went before her in 2004. Left behind to carry on her legacy are her two daughters, Lisa Newton and Cindy Newton Murtha; her son-in-law, Bill Murtha; and her grandchildren, Laura Murtha and Sean Murtha. Also left behind are so many wonderful caregivers and friends who have ministered to her and her family.

Melanie was born in Kansas City, Missouri on December 21, 1935 to George and Mary Paulette. She lived many places growing up due to her father's civil engineering jobs, but finally settled down in Winter Park, Florida. She graduated from Winter Park High School where she played basketball and golf and was voted most athletic in her class. She attended Florida State University and shortly after, fell in love with a young sailor and former high school classmate, Dale Newton. They were married on February 5, 1956 and began their 49 year- long love affair.

For a short time, Melanie was a music teacher to handicapped adults until she was called to be a full-time mother. During her lifetime career as a Super Mom, she worked on and off in retail , and with much joy, taught Sunday School to young children. For 31 years Melanie continued to teach Sunday School and serve in children's music ministries.

Most importantly, Melanie had such a passion and love for God and Jesus. This passion led her to be a wonderful, loving wife, and the very best Mom anyone could ever ask for. She was selfless and always gave her family unconditional love. In addition, Melanie allowed Jesus to use her to share His unmeasured love for all of us as His children. Many an early morning was spent studying the Bible, preparing Sunday school lessons and completing projects that served others and our Lord.

In addition, Melanie had other hobbies such as acrylic, tole, and watercolor painting. She especially loved to paint flowers in all their magnificent detail and colors. Melanie loved to create; whether it was through art, music, sewing, crewel needlework, or through creating special moments. Melanie poured out so much of herself and love into all that she did.

Even through her later years, when age and illness took their toll, you could still see that Melanie had so much love to share. She was genuinely interested in people and wanted to connect with them. Her light shone brightly even when her body was failing. God used her in so many ways to love on us, to teach us, to challenge us to be more like Jesus.

She went Home on Tuesday, June 2, 2015. What a celebration that must have been in Heaven! What a legacy to present to our Lord and Risen Savior! What a challenge to live up to! Only God can lead us and equip us with this task!

2 Timothy 4:6-8(NIV)

"For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day--and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

Matthew 25:21 (NIV)

"His Master replied, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your Master's happiness!"

Join us in sharing celebrating Melanie Newton's life and legacy!