Vicky Whitaker Melton, age 63, of Stanley, NC, died Wednesday, May 14, 2013 at her residence. 

      Vicky was born January 30, 1950 in Rutherford County, NC to the late William Worth Whitaker and Josephine McAbee Whitaker.  She was a faithful pastor’s wife for many years. She also worked for Bali Manufacturing and Gaston Memorial Hospital for several years.  She was a member of Horizon Baptist Church of Gastonia and was an avid reader and enjoyed teaching children’s Sunday School classes.

      In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Cecil Whitaker and one sister, Sherry Stenchcomb. 

      Survivors include her husband of 46 years, Alvin Melton, Jr.; one daughter, Angela Burgess and husband, Bobby of Gastonia; three sons, Alan Melton of Gastonia, NC, Travis Melton of Gastonia and Chad Melton and wife, Kristie of Hendersonville; one brother, Joe Whitaker and wife, Pat of Rutherfordton; two sisters, Phyllis Robertson and Tina Cooper both of Forest City.  She is also survived by twelve children and two great-grandchildren.

      Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2013 at the Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Brother Joe Whitaker and Reverend Bryan Ezell officiating.  Interment will follow at Eternal Hills Cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home.

      Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Gaston County, PO Box 3984, Gastonia, NC  28054 or to Horizon Baptist Church, 142 Royal Oaks Lane, Gastonia, NC 28056.

      Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is caring for the family of Mrs. Melton.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com