Melinda Mumford

Melinda’s journey came full circle, beginning and ending in Delta, Colorado, where she was born in a historic midwife house. Throughout her life, she was a woman of immense grit, vibrant humor, and unwavering dedication. She completely immersed herself in the lives of her loved ones, serving over the years as a military mom, wrestling mom, football mom, and academics mom.

She built a life in Grants, New Mexico, working at Nellis Auto Parts and in the local uranium mines, where she met the true love of her life, Melvin Mumford. Together, they forged a beautiful, blended family and partnership built on mutual devotion.

Melinda’s professional life was defined by her natural leadership and warmth. She found her true niche in food service operations, serving in correctional facilities and eventually for Montrose County. She retired after twenty-five years, where she built deep, lasting relationships with her staff and local deputies. Later in life, she selflessly cared for multiple generations of her family under one roof.

Above all, Melinda’s greatest legacy is her family. She was a fierce advocate for her grandchildren and a grounding anchor in times of tragedy. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of love spanning generations, including her four children, ten grandchildren (who affectionately knew her as "Kissy Grandma"), and ten great-grandchildren.

She faced the end of her life with absolute peace, reflecting that she had lived a good life and raised good children. Her fiery spirit, sharp wit, and deep capacity to love fiercely remain a guiding light for the many generations she leaves behind.