Claudia Melson, retired receptionist

Claudia Melson, 91, of Lewes, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 1, 2013, at the Delaware Hospice Center, Milford.

Claudia was born Nov. 19, 1921, daughter of the late Harold and Mary (Atkins) Brittingham, and was the second baby born in Beebe Hospital in Lewes. She graduated from Lewes High School, class of 1939.  She worked in the dental office of Dr. Bruce Wright and Dr. Thomas Conley as a receptionist for 27 years. She enjoyed gardening and was active in the garden club in her younger years.  Needlework was a hobby and she created many beautiful pieces. Claudia was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church for many years.

In addition to her parents, Claudia was preceded in death by her loving husband of 58 years, Joseph Melson; her brother, Harold Brittingham; and her sister, Geraldine Montgomery.  She is survived by her son, JB Melson and his wife Judy; two grandsons: Brett Melson and his fiancé Natalie Monroe, and Jarrod Melson and his wife Lori Chletsos; granddaughter, Josie Melson; sister, Josephine vanEs; brother Dick Brittingham and his wife Martha; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 7, at 11 a.m., at Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach,  where friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will be private. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth, DE 19971, or to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.