Melanie Shope Obituary

Melanie Lynn Shope, 69, of Goose Creek, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening in a Charleston hospital. Born August 30, 1956, in Painesville, Ohio, Melanie was the beloved daughter of Maynard Reed Shope and Doris Ruth Christian Shope of Melbourne, Florida. Melanie dedicated many years of service as a shop clerk and parts manager for Charleston County Schools, where her attention to detail and cheerful spirit left a lasting impression. She was a woman of deep curiosity and conviction, proudly of the Protestant faith and a lifelong learner who pursued historical and political studies through Hillsdale College. A passionate genealogist and local history enthusiast, Melanie found joy in exploring South Carolina's state parks, walking trails, and uncovering stories of the past. She was a collector of milk glass, a lover of horses and all animals, and a devoted cat mom to her cherished companions, Miles and Reggie. Melanie was known for her sharp intellect and her unmatched ability to spark meaningful conversation on any topic-from current events to the quirks of everyday life. Her wit was legendary; she could make anyone laugh, often until tears flowed. She also found peace in knitting, a quiet craft that reflected her gentle nature. She is survived by her loving parents; her sisters, Beverly Frischkorn (Jeffrey) of Mentor, OH, Deborah Ladlee of Melbourne, FL, Faith Shope of Mentor, OH, Joy Alexander (Robert) of Midland, TX, Annette Lebby (Steven) of Powhatan, VA; her brother, Reed Shope (Annette) of Burke, VA; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will carry forward her legacy of laughter, curiosity, and kindness. A Celebration of Life will be held at 5:30 PM Wednesday, November 5, 2025, in the Chapel of Dial-Murray Funeral Home, Moncks Corner. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the National Kidney Foundation of South Carolina, 701 Gervais Street, Suite 150-195, Columbia, SC 29201, or to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 11796, Charlotte, NC 28220. The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM until the hour of service. To send a flower arrangement in memory of Melanie Shope, please click here to visit our sympathy store.