Melanie S. Turner

February 13, 1953 – February 6, 2025

Melanie Sue (Harris) Turner was a dedicated teacher, profound gardener, and proud angel to her sisters of AOΠ. Most importantly, she was a Nana to her two grandsons, Jaxon and Jagger, she was a beloved mother-in-law to Justine, she was everything that epitomized being a mom to her son Troy and daughter Natalie, and a wonderful wife of nearly 50 years to her husband, Dennis. She was called to eternal rest with the Lord on February 6, 2025, at the age of 71.

She was born to Harvey O. and Margaret H. Harris on February 13, 1953. She is survived by her husband Dennis, two children Troy (Justine) and Natalie, her two grandsons Jaxon and Jagger, brother Rex (Anita), sisters-in-law Darlene (Paul) and Denise (Steve), and several nieces and nephews.

After graduating high school, Melanie pursued her Home Economics degree at Indiana State University and became a proud sister of the Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority. After college she and Dennis were married on August 9, 1975; soon after she became a mother with two of her greatest joys. Her early years as a professional began as a seamstress and eventually evolved into a profound teaching career. Her magnitude of achievements include being Teacher of the Year, Business Woman of the Year, former member of Zonta Club of Lebanon, member of Psi Iota Xi Sorority, head of Z Club at Lebanon High School, creator of Tiger Town Book Store at Lebanon High School, coach of multiple sports including basketball, volleyball, softball, and baseball for young athletes, a twirler, Indiana Poland China Pork Queen, and 1970 Miss Boone County.

Melanie was a woman of tradition, always welcoming her beautiful home for gatherings and especially enjoyed hosting family for the holidays. As a mother she loved watching her kids waterski on Lake Shafer, supporting them in sports and guiding them through all of their life decisions. She enjoyed bringing their friends together in her home. Whether it be dance parties at the house, or summer trips to the lake, everyone was always welcomed with love.

Melanie found great peace in gardening. She loved having her hands in the dirt creating beautiful flower gardens while enjoying her koi pond.

Melanie’s most treasured moment was becoming a Nana where she spent most of her retired days instilling her kindness, generosity, and love to her grandchildren. She and Dennis loved watching the Indiana Pacers, specifically Myles Turner, the Indianapolis Colts, and the Purdue Boilermakers. Her pinnacle of happiness was being Dennis’ dancing queen. Melanie was the glue to her family and will be missed immensely.

Visitation was held Tuesday, February 11, 2025, and again from 10:30 a.m. to noon Wednesday, February 12, at Myers Mortuary, 1502 N. Lebanon St., Lebanon. Funeral services are planned for noon Wednesday, February 12. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lebanon.

Online condolences: MyersMortuary.com