Brenda Tadlock Melton

In Loving Memory of Brenda Tadlock Melton

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23

On the evening of April 10, 2026, heaven grew sweeter as Brenda Tadlock Melton, 79, of Phenix City, Alabama, peacefully departed this life at St. Francis Hospital in Columbus, Georgia, and stepped into the presence of her Savior.

A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Phenix City, Alabama, with Jon Hester officiating. A quiet, private interment will follow.

Brenda was born on September 26, 1946, in Columbus, Georgia, a daughter of J. T. Tadlock and Audrey Jordan Tadlock. She lived her life not for recognition, but for service—reflecting the heart of Christ in the way she loved and cared for others.

Her hands were rarely still. Whether working with the Columbus Police Department, the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, running her own snack bar, doing administrative work for Tadlock Pest Control, or working alongside her beloved husband Scott at Melton Wood Products, Brenda worked with quiet strength and unwavering devotion. Yet her greatest work was found in the countless lives she touched.

Brenda had a servant’s heart. She didn’t think twice about helping others, especially those who were hurting, tired, or going through a hard time. When illness came to her family, she became a steady presence of care and compassion. When children gathered, so did her joy, as she delighted in their laughter and innocence. Her home was a place of warmth, where meals were made with love and time was given freely. She loved to cook from scratch. The family loved her cooking so much! Like her homemade biscuits, cornbread, and cheeseball. But she never needed a written recipe or a measuring cup. She would design elaborate themed birthday parties for her children, and grandchildren. She had a way of making everyone feel special and loved. Brenda was truly a beauty, inside and out. Her wise counsel and biblical foundation would draw many people to her for guidance. She was a prayer warrior like no other.

She was preceded in death not only by her parents, but also by her beloved sister, Dianne Tadlock Knotts, who now rejoices with her in glory.

Left to carry her legacy of love are her devoted husband of 41 years, Scott Melton; her daughter, Lisa Goble and husband Brad; her sons, Allen Matthews and wife Dawn, Kent Matthews and wife Angela, and Kevin Matthews and wife Ginger. She is also survived by her sisters, Shirley Jones, Elaine Thompson, and Patsy Linton and husband Doug; her brothers, Eddie Tadlock and wife Sue, and Jimmy Tadlock and wife Kathy.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren—Crystal Matthews, Erin Graham (Jake), and Reagan Matthews—and her precious great-grandchildren, Fynleigh Graham, Luna Matthews, and Millie Graham. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends, all of whom were touched by her kindness.

Though we grieve her absence, we do not grieve without hope. Brenda’s life was a quiet testimony of faith, love, and service—and now she rests in the arms of the One she served so faithfully.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made in her honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, continuing her love for children in need.