Melanie Ann Pirtle

Melanie Ann Pirtle was born on November 2, 1956, in Lufkin, TX to Jack and Joyce (Collier) Pirtle. She passed away Saturday, February 18, 2023, in Rusk, TX. Melanie was an adorable child who loved being around those she loved the most. Growing up, she had a longing to help others. As a young adult, she began working as a nurse aide at what is now known as Cherokee Trails Nursing and Rehabilitation Unit. Melanie felt as if that was her calling and she loved the people who were residents, as well as the staff she worked with. As Melanie grew older and was dealt some unfortunate medical issues herself, she did everything she could to make it through. And making it is what she was able to do with her loving family by her side. She loved and was loved. Eventually, Melanie was taken back to where she actually started and upon entering the building she told her mama” I am finally at home again”. Melanie spent the next 20 years visiting and sitting with those less fortunate. She would go up and down the halls speaking to most everyone and all the residents enjoyed her being a daily dose of sunshine. Little did they know that those visits were also what kept Melanie going. Her final years were not easy ones, but she was happy she was at “home” to spend them where she felt safest.

One only had to step into her room to know who her “main man” was. As most women from her generation, Melanie had developed a healthy love of Elvis. She enjoyed his music, his stories, and anything she could get her hands on that was Elvis themed. She also had a deep passion for watching movies. She often ran out of room for her DVDs and was saddened to get rid of some in order to fit the newest ones in the shelf. Melanie was also a music lover and country, gospel and of course, Elvis, were her favorites.

Melanie will be missed by the ones who held her closest. They will forever remember her laughs, her dedication to the ones she cared for in her young adult days and her devotion to her “neighbors” down the halls of Cherokee Trails. May her memory be sweet ones for each of those she touched with her compassion.

Melanie is survived by her mother, Joyce Pirtle; sister, Lydia Beathard and husband, Terry; nephew, Chris Beathard and wife, Allison and their children, Debra and Thomas; nephew, Walter Beathard and wife, Lakesha and their daughter, Leila; nephew, Matthew Beathard; aunt, Montez Williamson, uncle, Ricky Collier and wife, Debbie and special friend and cousin LeeAnn Williamson along with numerous cousins.

She is preceded in death by her brother, Frank Allen Pirtle.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Cherokee Trails and Hospice Plus who were wonderful to both them and Melanie in her final days.

The Pirtle family is being served by Laird Funeral Home. To convey condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.lairdfh.net.