Ruth Melde

    Ruth Ann Melde, 73, of Murphy, passed away Friday, June 18, 2021.
    Ruth was born July 23, 1947, in New Hampshire to the late John and Lavinia Symonett Hammond.
    She had worked for Murphy Elementary and Hiwassee Dam in the cafeteria before retiring. She also enjoyed doing crafts and baking.
    In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Melde.
    She is survived by her son Erich Melde; daughter, Heather Fannin and husband Robert; brothers, John, Walter and Robert Hammond; sisters, Betty Holmes, Alice Dunn and Joyce Christensen; grandchildren, Harlie Fannin, Callie Fannin, Natalie Fannin and Ketron Shook; and several nieces and nephews.
    A funeral service was held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 22, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. The Rev. Greg Swain will officiate.
    A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 23, at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.
    The family received friends from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, June 22, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy.
    You may send tributes to the family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.