Melda A. Bengston, devoted to family, faith

Melda A. Bengston, 94, of Millsboro, passed away peacefully Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving children.

Born April 2, 1931, in Indiana, Pa. Melda grew up with a love of learning that shaped her life and career. She graduated from Indiana High School and Indiana University of Pennsylvania, earning her bachelor’s degree in education. She began her professional life as a middle school English teacher, sharing her love of language and literature with her students. Continuing her education at University of Delaware, she later became a speech pathologist and devoted many years of caring service to students at Meadowood School until her retirement.

Following retirement, Melda and her beloved husband of 66 years, Paul, built their dream home along the water in Millsboro. It quickly became the family’s cherished happy place, filled with laughter, gatherings, and treasured memories across generations. Melda had a special gift for making every occasion meaningful, from holiday traditions and family dinners to birthdays and simple everyday moments.

Her three granddaughters were the light of her life. She delighted in their accomplishments and activities, and faithfully attended dance recitals, school events, and celebrations. Time spent with family was her greatest joy.

Melda was endlessly curious and creative. She loved reading, learning new skills, and taking on crafts and hands-on projects. She was a true original do-it-yourselfer, always ready to try something new and make it her own.

A longtime member of Epworth United Methodist Church, Melda’s faith was steady and personal. She often said she felt closest to God in her gardens and in nature. Her gardens stand as a living legacy, one that will continue to grow and bloom through each season. She was also an avid birdwatcher who took great pleasure in naming and observing her frequent feathered visitors.

Melda and Paul shared a love of travel and adventure, exploring destinations across the U.S. and Europe. In later years, Florida became their favorite winter home away from home.

She is survived by her son, David P. Bengston of Avondale, Pa.; her daughter, Deborah L. Bengston of Middletown; her granddaughters, Jana C. DeNobrega (Patrick), Sara K. Malloy (Ryan) and Maya M. Bengston; and her great-grandchildren, Jackson P. DeNobrega, Samuel L. Malloy, and Rosie P. Malloy. She is also survived by her sister, Joan L. Allwine, and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Paul J. Bengston; her parents, Mary E. (Garretson) Good and Ernest L. Good; her sister, Marilyn J. Howell; and her daughter-in-law, Karen A. Bengston.

Melda will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, devotion to family, love of nature, and the beauty she brought into the lives of those around her.

A public service will be held at 12 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 12, at Epworth United Methodist Church, Rehoboth. Livestream will be available on the church website.

In lieu of flowers, her family suggests donations to Epworth United Methodist Church for garden beautification.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.