Carol Lee Melvin's Obituary
October 11, 1937 – September 17, 2025
On September 17, 2025, Carol Lee Melvin, affectionately known by her grandchildren as Muffie, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family.
Carol was born in Washington, DC, the second of three daughters, to Bennie and Geneva Garrett. The family resided in Washington, DC (while her father served overseas in World War II) and then Forestville, until her father built their family home in Huntingtown.
Carol graduated from Suitland High School in 1956 where she met “Wes” Shirley. They were married in October 1956. They had four children: Michael, Lisa, Alan and Mark. They purchased a home in Waldorf in 1965 where Carol nurtured her children (and their rescue pet menagerie) introducing and fostering their love for the great outdoors and animals.
Carol was a member of the Waldorf SDA Church where she served as Treasurer for 19 years until the age of computers. In 1972, she started driving a school bus and drove for 43 years before retiring in 2015.
She was married to Ray Melvin in October 1985 and they spent many happy years together. They enjoyed traveling on his Honda Gold Wing and spending time in their home in Cocoa, Florida.
Carol is survived by her children Lisa (Glenn) and Mark (Deborah), her daughter-in-law Melinda, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents, her first and second husbands, her sisters (Joan Miller and Suzanne Oliver) and her beloved sons Michael and Alan.
Carol had a kind and loving heart and would give the coat off her back to help anyone in need. She has helped many animals and people during her lifetime. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Humane Society of Charles County.
She will be remembered always for her love, generosity, and devotion to family and her cats.
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