Melody Rhodes Ripley

Melody Rhodes Ripley, age 66, of Albuquerque,

NM, passed away on Sunday, November 7, 2021 after battling COVID-19. Melody was born on November 29,

1954 to James “Jimmy” Marrow and Myra Marrow in Wilmington, NC. When she was 8 years old, she moved to Arlington, Texas so that her father could be the minister at Westminster Presbyterian Church. She graduated from Arlington High School in 1973 and received her BS in Education from Texas Wesleyan University in 1978. Melody taught for 42 years as a teacher, primarily in Special Education.

Melody was a proud mother of two boys, Cameron, age 36, and Andrew, age 30. Melody’s unconditional love and constant encouragement gave her children the confidence to pursue their dreams. Her gentle kindness taught her sons to try their best to treat others how they want to be treated. Melody’s contagious laugh and true zest for life taught Cameron and Andrew to always enjoy the moment.

Melody Rhodes Ripley lived a joyful and compassionate life and always kept a song in her heart. She enjoyed music in all its forms, whether singing, dancing, or just listening. She was a devoted Christian and an active member in the various churches she attended throughout her life. She enjoyed staying fit and active, whether she was participating in aerobics class or going for a nice, long walk. Also, Melody was always the first person to send a thank you note or express her appreciation for others. Melody will be forever remembered as an incredibly kind, warm, and loving person.

Melody is preceded in death by her father, James Marrow. She is survived by her mother, Myra Marrow; her two sons, Cameron Ripley and Andrew Ripley; her two brothers, Al Marrow and Page Marrow, and her sister, Joy Williams.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, November 20, 2021 at Ridglea Presbyterian Church, 5000 Southwest Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76116, with Reverend Roger Harwerth. A reception service will take place after the service, and all guests are welcome to attend. More information can be found at www.melodyripley.com.