Cynthia J. Melton, age 80 of Merrill, passed away peacefully on December 31st. She was born on January 17, 1945, to the late Earl and Jane (Powers) Smith.

Cynthia was first married to Raymond Woller Jr., and together they welcomed three children: Julie, Anthony, and Francie. She later married Chuck Melton, blending their families and adding her daughter, Michelle.

Cindy was not always a perfect person, but who in the world is? She always spoke her thoughts, good or bad. Cindy was a woman who cherished her privacy and the quiet rhythms of life in the comfort of her home. She found joy in watching her favorite TV programs (Gunsmoke, CSI, NCIS), and any other detective-mystery shows. Also, NASCAR. She never missed a race. She knew every detail about every driver and start times. When not watching TV, she would read the 10 different magazines she bought. Fun fact – her daughters received the same magazines (from her).

Known as "Grandma Chuck" by her grandchildren, everyone knew that her house was always stocked with sweets. She had a huge sweet tooth, she never passed up the chance for cinnamon rolls, ice cream or chocolate of any kind – but "NO" peanut butter, —diabetes be damned.

Cindy enjoyed a good game of sheepshead with family and the ladies at Jenny Towers. She would call her daughters and rub it in that she won at BINGO, and how awesome it was that she won a gift card. Cindy was a collector of magnets (her fridge was covered), knickknacks, and trinkets, each one holding a memory. She always had her home totally decorated for every holiday season. She would always buy the window clingy' s for her family's windows.

Years ago, Cindy worked in West Bend at the hospital in the kitchen. She loved to talk to everyone. She also devoted many hours volunteering at St. Mary's Hospital in Rhinelander.

She is survived by her loving children: Julie (Glen) Mathews, Anthony Woller; and Francie Hahn. Her grandchildren: Jana, Britney, Jesse, Trevar (Lisa), Zac (Casey), Alexandra (fiancé Nate), Amanda, Rebecca, Desari, and Bradyn; 14 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her sisters: Bonnie Koelsch, Audrey Zingler, Linda (David) Voelz, and Jill (Steve) Patraw.

In addition to her parents, Cynthia was preceded in death by her husband, Chuck Melton, her daughter, Michelle and brother-in-law Mike.

Cindy will always be remembered.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm on Friday, January 30th, 2026, at St. Stephens United Church of Christ, 903 E. 2nd Street, Merrill, WI 54452. Visitation will take place from 10:00 am until the time of the services at the church. Burial will take place at a later date at the Forest Home Cemetery in Rhinelander.

Family and friends may leave words of remembrance at www.honorone.com.

John J Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.