Melanie Dixon Funchees, 50, of Mathews, Virginia, was born Sept. 30, 1966 to John and Stella Dixon. She left her earthly home in Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016, with her family at her side.

“Mel” or “Boufant,” as she was called by family and classmates, was a 1984 graduate of Mathews High. After high school, she enlisted in the U.S. Army and served for several years. She later joined the Order of Eastern Star, Prince Hall Affiliation in New Jersey and served as Worthy Matron. She was employed by Apria Health, Inc., in Colorado.

She leaves to cherish her memories her mother, Stella Breckenridge of Mathews; her brother, John Dixon Jr. (Charmaine) of Richmond; her sister, Julie Battle of Mathews; three nephews, Robert, Kristian and Aaron Dixon of Richmond; her fiancé, Elijah Davis of Richmond; four aunts, Helen Smith and Barbara Jones of Mathews, Betty Dixon of Richmond and Shirley Billups (Edwin) of Mathews; six uncles, Willie Dixon of Mathews, Richard Dixon (Brenda) of Gloucester, Charles Dixon, Stanley (Eleanor) of Mathews, George (Janice) of Newport News and Terry Dixon (Alice) of Mathews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral service at Newington Baptist Church, Gloucester on Friday, Dec. 30 at 12 noon. Viewing on Thursday, Dec. 29 from 3-6 p.m. at funeral home.

Arrangements by Forrest Bros. Funeral Home, Hudgins.