Melissa Newton Stroud, 89, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2023, with her loving family surrounding her.

Melissa was born on September 12, 1933, to Josh Leonard Newton and Maggie Etta Newton, as the youngest of five children. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Evans Cole Stroud; her brothers Frank, Leonard, Earl, and Ray Dean; and daughter-in-law Jane Stroud (Charles). She is survived by her three loving children Charles Stroud (Doreen Hevener), Jane McCurry (Charles), and Judy Carpenter (Jeff); eight grandchildren Gerry Lipscomb (Anna), Patrick Lipscomb, Rebecca Stroud, Erin Silvers (Justin), Clint Smart (Lauren), Kyle Smart (Katie), Anna Carpenter, and Ethan Carpenter; and seven great-grandchildren Jessi James, Addison Smart, Evans Smart, Samuel Smart, Emerson Lipscomb, Jackson Lipscomb, and Gemma Grace Lane.

To reduce any person who walked this earth to words in an obituary is a profound and difficult feat, but to fully capture who Melissa was is nearly impossible. She will undoubtedly be remembered as dedicated, unwavering, strong-willed, and even stubborn at times. She was always a lover of flowers and plants of all kinds, quilts, braided rugs, and Alston Bridges barbecue. But foremost, Melissa was a tirelessly hard worker, a dear friend to many, and a steadfast and cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. For decades she stood as a part of the fabric of her community and her church, Big Springs Baptist.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, June 13, 2023, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Big Springs Baptist Church.

The memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. at Big Springs Baptist Church with Rev. Paul Scott and Dr. Jim Richardson officiating.

A quest register is available at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Fallston.