Lillie Melissie Murphy Melson

Lillie Melissie Murphy Melson was born October 24, 1936, in Hardin County to the late Albert and Maudie Rainey Murphy. She was united in marriage to Lonzo Melson in August of 1956. Mr. Melson preceded her in death on August 23, 2018. This union was blessed with four children, James, Melissa, Rita, and Judy. Mrs. Melson devoted her life to making a home for her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. One of her greatest pleasures in life was babysitting when she was able. She loved working in her flower beds and in the garden. When the garden came in, she would be found in the kitchen, canning the vegetables she had grown. She had a great passion for yard sales, enjoying both going to them and having them herself. Mrs. Melson departed this life on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Columbia, TN, making her stay in this life some 89 years, 5 months, and 23 days.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, James Melson (Pam); two sons-in-law, Ernie Moon, Stanley Holt, both of Waynesboro, TN; nine grandchildren, Jamie Burns (Cierra), Alana Burlison, Tyler Burns (Shelia), Brooke Moon (Kyle), Breanna Moon, Jason Holt (Kiara), Lisa Odell, Shania Harris (Elisabeth), and Jessie Melson (Shelby). She is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband of 62 years, she is preceded in death by three daughters, Melissa Walker, Rita Moon, and Judy Holt; one grandson, Brad Burns; her brother-in-law, Willie Moser; and 6 siblings.

Funeral services began at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Bates-Love Funeral and Cremation Chapel with Jason Love officiating. Burial followed in Shields Cemetery

Bates-Love Funeral and Cremation is honored to serve the Melson family.