Melany Hamilton Nussbaumer

Born on August 18, 1956, in Huntsville, Alabama, Melany was the daughter of Barbara Reid Hamilton and the late Douglas Wayne Hamilton. She was a graduate of Bowling Green High School, Bowling Green, KY., and attended Western Kentucky before transferring to Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina where she graduated with honors receiving her BA in Education. Continuing her education, Melany finished her college career at the University of South Carolina, obtaining a double master’s in science education and administration. She also received her National Board Certification in Education. Melany taught in Saluda County for years before moving to Horry County, where she taught at North Myrtle Beach Middle School. Her love of the classroom was evident as she was awarded “Teacher of the Year” in both Saluda and Horry County. Melany personally received the Presidential Award for Sciences by former President George H.W. Bush and was also featured in several national Magazines as the State Farm Good Neighbor of the Year.

Shaped by a loving childhood, Melany cherished her family as well as her furbabies. She enjoyed cooking, especially for the holidays and Christmas was her favorite. Decorating trees throughout her house and preparing Christmas Eve dinner with her mother was a family tradition.

She also enjoyed Arts and crafts, painting and keeping up with her former students, Travis, Antonio and so many more. She prided herself on the accomplishments of her former students as she was loved by so many.

Surviving in addition to her husband of 46 years, Bernie and her mother, Barbara, are children, Nicholas (Cheryl), Elizabeth (Scott); sisters, Pamela Hamilton, Kimberly Hamilton, Kristin Hamilton; brother, Matthew Hamilton (Romekka) She is also survived by nephews, William Foster and Reid Hamilton and one niece Balen Hamilton.

A funeral mass will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, North Myrtle Beach, SC. Lee Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

The family invites you to Celebrate Melany following the service on Friday June 19 at the Bridgewater Clubhouse from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m.