Mary McKeown Melson, selfless volunteer
Mary McKeown Melson, 77, of Bethany Beach, formerly of Newport, passed away Wednesday, July 4, 2018, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes. Mary was born in Newport Aug. 15, 1940, daughter of the late Edward and Gertrude (Dowlen) McKeown.
She attended St. Matthew's Elementary School and graduated from St. Elizabeth's High School in the class of 1958. She worked as a legal secretary for Wilmington Trust for over 10 years before going to the University of Delaware and receiving a bachelor's degree in business education. Mary then taught at Delcastle Technical High School for a couple of years before joining her husband in their family business, Melson Appraisal Service, for the last 30 years.
Mrs. Melson enjoyed volunteering her time at the St. Ann's gift shop, and also was a mentor for several years at the John M. Clayton School in Dagsboro. Mary was selfless, and was always concerned for the welfare of others. She enjoyed entertaining for her family and friends, and was well-known for her family gatherings. Mary also enjoyed traveling, going to the beach, and was an avid reader. Joe's and her love extended to their dogs, as they were their "children."
She is survived by her loving husband of 55-and-a-half years, Joseph N. Melson Jr.; her four-legged companion, Mick; a brother, Edward (Eileen) McKeown of Hockessin; a niece, Clare McKeown of Middletown, and her six children, Eric, Matthew, Madison, Andrew, Brandon and Sarah; two nephews, Thomas (Patricia) McKeown of Hockessin, and their two children, Erin and Kyle and Terry (Maria) McKeown of Haddon Heights, N.J., and their daughter, Kyra.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, July 10, at St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, where friends and family may call after 10 a.m. Interment will be held privately at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Mary's name to St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, DE 19930.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
