Melody Vest Gunter

Melody Vest Gunter, 66, of Gladstone passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. She was the wife of the late Chris Edward Gunter.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland on September 25, 1959, she was the daughter of the late Owen Calvin “OC” Vest and June Lee Harris Vest.

Melody’s faith was an essential part of who she was. She loved her church and her church family, finding comfort, strength, and connection through her faith. Her relationship with God and her church community provided her with grounding support, and she cherished the bonds she built over the years.

She was also deeply dedicated to her work. Melody took great pride in her job at Central Virginia Training Center with Buildings & Grounds, where she worked alongside men she respected and cared for deeply. Her coworkers were more than colleagues – they were people she valued, and she gave her best to her work every day.

Melody faced her cancer with extraordinary strength, meeting each challenge with courage, grace, and an unbreakable spirit. Even in the most challenging moments, she showed resilience and determination, refusing to let illness define who she was. Through every setback and small victory, she reminded us what true bravery looks like – and her strength will remain a lasting part of the legacy she leaves behind.

She will be remembered as a woman of strength, faith, fairness, and devotion – a steady presence, a hard worker, and the heart of her family. Melody was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

She is survived by three children, Kelly Hodge and Jason, Keri Sage and Justin, and Chad Keesee and Callie; five grandchildren, Kayla Williams and Holden, Tyler Sage, April Sage, Stephen Keesee, and Maddie Grace Hodge; three siblings, Shirley Mae Harris, Peggie Dixon, and Patrick Vest and Kim; her beloved dog, Toby; and a growing legacy that includes a great-granddaughter, who she was excited to welcome.

A memorial service will be held 2pm, Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Robinson Funeral Home with Pastor Lynn Barringer officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the staff of Southside Hematology and Oncology Clinic, specifically her oncologist, Dr. Rasheed, for their exceptional care and compassion during her journey. Her family is forever grateful to their dedication, unwavering support, and love they offered.

In lieu of flowers please consider making memorial donations to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 1663 Mt. Rush Hwy, Dillwyn, VA 23936.

Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family, www.robinsonfuneral.com