Melanie Dawn Atherton, age 26, of Wayne County, Ohio died unexpectedly on Sunday, May 12, 2024. 

Private services were held at Alexander Funeral Home, Millersburg, Ohio. Those wishing to share a memory or make online condolences may do so by visiting www.alexanderfhinc.com. 

Family suggests memorial contributions be made to the funeral home to help defray cost.

Melanie was born September 19, 1997 in Millersburg, Ohio and was the daughter of David L. Atherton and Lucinda S. Duncan. She was a 2016 graduate of Waynedale High School where she was a member of the FFA and played basketball. After high school she received her STNA certification. She loved the beach, being outdoors, her siblings and spending time with her family.

Melanie is survived by her father, David (Miranda) Atherton of Killbuck; siblings: Keith Shelter, Jasmine Wood, Christine Atherton, David Jr. Atherton and Isabella Atherton; her niece, Willow; paternal grandparents: Kenneth Atherton Sr. and Shirley Starnes; maternal grandparents: Willet and Kathy Rose; paternal aunts and uncles: Melinda "Aunt Melinders", June, Kenny and Kristi; maternal aunts and uncles: Kenny, William, Dawana, Geraldine, Allison and Eddie Sr.; and her cousin and best friend, Tawnya. 

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lucinda Duncan; her former stepmother, Jessica Atherton; paternal great grandparents: Therman and Betty Jeandervine; maternal great-grandmother, Arvilla Swinehart; her aunt, Mary Petroff; and her baby boy, Jasper Michael Atherton, who passed away with her on Sunday, May 12th.