Judy Jones Melton, 49, of Ashland passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 12, 2012.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Christine Jones Sullivan. She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Michael J. Melton; a daughter, Jessica Lynn Melton; a son, Christopher Bryan Melton; a sister, Patricia Jones Wyant and her husband, Bill; mother-in-law Louise Melton; brother-in-law Steve Melton; sister-in-law Lisa Tworek and her husband, Troy; nieces and nephews Beth Bailes, Erica Duggins, David Spratt, Laura Tworek and Matthew Tworek and their families; and her best friend, Amy Webb Kern, and her husband, George.

Born and raised in Fredericksburg, she graduated from Stafford High School in 1981. Judy worked at the National Bank of Fredericksburg with her mother, Christine, who often had to come downstairs from her office and tell Judy to keep the laughing to a minimum. She was loved by all who met her; Judy's warm and engaging personality instantly won over anyone she met. She touched the lives of many with her kind personality and genuine love for others. It was through that relationship at the bank that she and her husband, Mike, began dating, starting a relationship that lasted 29 years. After marriage, they traveled together and lived in Germany for three years with the U.S. Army.

Throughout their life together, Judy's proudest accomplishment was that of being called Mom by her two children. Her nurturing, encouragement and never-ending support of her children through endless sessions of sports, academics and social activities proved time and again that they were the most-important part of her life. Her time with us was cut unexpectedly short, but her enduring impact on her family, friends and co-workers will never be forgotten.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, July 17, with a memorial service to follow at 4 p.m. in the Nelsen Funeral Home, Reid Chapel, 412 S. Washington Highway, Ashland.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in memory of Judy to the American Cancer Society, 4240 Park Place Court, Glen Allen, Va. 23060; or to the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad, Box 667, Ashland, Va. 23005.