A silent gift of grace and mercy was given to Annie’s loved ones on June 27, 2023 as her Lord and Savior took her by the hand to her new heavenly home.

Her funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, July 3, 2023 at St. Paul Baptist Church, 1309 Larkin Street, Greensboro, North Carolina. Visitation will start one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow at Maplewood Cemetery.

Annie Petty Melton was born on November 5, 1933 in Spartanburg, South Carolina to John Claude Petty and Mae Bell Houston Petty. Her siblings Madie Petty Hancock, Claude William Petty, and Richard Odell Petty preceded her in death. She received her education in Guilford County Schools and married the late Roy Melton, Jr., with whom she nurtured and raised their eight children.

Annie joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1963 where she cheerfully gave of her talents whenever called upon. Annie treasured her time as one of the first Den Mothers of the church-supported Cub Scouts where her five sons participated. She ensured that her children were fully integrated in the church. She taught Sunday School and served alongside her late mother in many capacities, including the Bereavement, Pastor’s Aide, and Senior Travelers ministries, and her melodic soprano voice blessed St. Paul’s Jubilee Choir.

Annie worked at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, Cone Mills, and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s Physical Plant in Greensboro, North Carolina and ultimately retired to care for her late mother until she passed in 2000.

Annie spent her time praying, enjoying the company of loved ones, and caring for those in need. She strived to be a friend, supporter, and confidante to all she encountered, embodying the theme of her favorite poem, “House by the Side of the Road” by Sam Walter Foss that she first learned in grade school. Annie was also known to spend time rooting for her favorite sports teams, the Carolina Panthers and the Golden State Warriors, and could be found in her kitchen preparing delicious meals and desserts. Those who had the privilege of enjoying a plate of food or a confection made by Annie were grateful for her superb cooking and baking skills.

To cherish a lifetime of fond memories, she leaves: eight children, Joyce Annette Melton Charles (Chester), Jennifer Lorraine Garner (Rick), Roy Melton, III, Rodney Odell Melton (Collette), Ronald Melton (Deborah), Pamela Dee Melton, Randy Melton (Lynn) and Raeford Melton; seventeen grandchildren; and a host of great grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends.

Woodard Funeral Home is in charge of the funeral arrangements. **Woodard Funeral Home is not affiliated with any other funeral home.