Melon V. Stewart

Melon Virginia Hall Stewart, a remarkable woman with a heart as big as her smile, began her earthly journey on August 26, 1920. She was the second of eight children born to the late Ethel Dixon and Edward Hall. She was a native of Pontotoc, Mississippi but made Anniston her home. Melon was educated in the Pontotoc County School system and attended Pontotoc High School where she was a cheerleader. Melon accepted Christ at an early age. Her unwavering faith led her to unite with Players Chapel CME Church, The Christian Center, and later, The Blueprint Church. Melon had a daily interaction with God through prayer. Her favorite song, "Have a Little Talk with Jesus," reflected her deep faith and brought her comfort in times of need. Melon met the love of her life, Amory E. Stewart, and the two were united in holy matrimony in 1940. In 1943, they moved to Anniston and raised their five wonderful and loving children, three boys and two girls. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she took pride in being their loving matriarch. She helped provide for her family as a domestic worker in the homes of Arthur Lee, owner of Lee Brass, and one of the Dishman brothers, owner of Anniston Lumber Company. After retiring, Melon enjoyed participating in events at the City of Anniston's Senior Center which included quilting, playing horseshoes, and dominos. Melon, affectionately known as Puny, never met a stranger and had a special talent for making everyone feel welcomed and cherished. She was a giver at heart, always ready to lend a helping hand. Melon was a nurturing soul, who loved tending to her flowers and feeding those around her. Her joy knew no bounds when it came to feeding people, cooking was not just a task but a way to show her love. She had a special gift for baking, especially lemon meringue pies, her family's favorite. Her warm presence and delicious treats will forever be missed. On Monday, September 9, 2024, late in the evening, Melon had a little talk with Jesus. He heard her faintest cry, and she peacefully rose to her reward of everlasting life at the age of 104. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Ethel Hall; her husband, Amory E. Stewart; her son, Otis Stewart; her grandchildren, Erica Stewart and Ken Stewart, Jr.; her siblings, Tamar, James, Catherine, Florence, Minus, Herron B., and Ethel Sadoris; and her daughter-in-law, Mary H. Stewart. Her precious memories will forever be cherished by her two sons, Robert Stephen Stewart and Gordon Lee Stewart of Anniston; two daughters, Mary E. Springer and Delores (Tony) Haynes of Anniston; a daughter-in-law, Wanda Stewart of Chicago, Illinois; 18 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Marie Hall, Mae Hall, and Virginia Hall; and a host of other family members and friends. As we celebrate a life well-lived, a spirit that will forever be cherished, and the love that will resonate through generations to come, let us find solace in the wonderful memories she leaves behind. Melon V. Stewart, your light will continue to shine bright in our hearts forever.

Tributes

Melon V. Stewart

August 26, 1920 - September 9, 2024