Melrose Bussard

Melrose Bussard, 92, of Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 12, 2026, at Brookdale Harbison in Columbia, South Carolina. She was born on March 18, 1934, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, to Willis and Helen (Davis) Richardson.

At 18, she married the love of her life, Lee Bussard, and together they shared 74 years of marriage. Their story began with what many would call divine intervention—they happened to visit the same park separately, where Lee asked Melrose on their first date. That chance meeting blossomed into a lifetime of love, partnership, and adventure.

Melrose's strong work ethic carried through every stage of her life. She worked for Lion Manufacturing Company, RCA, and Lipton Tea, earning the respect of coworkers through her dedication and dependability.

Retirement opened the door to some of their happiest years together. Melrose and Lee served as campground hosts at Cowan's Gap State Park in Fort Loudon, Pennsylvania, for 23 years, welcoming campers with genuine hospitality and forming friendships that lasted a lifetime. They also spent 28 winters at Whispering Pines Village in Sebring, Florida, where they enjoyed an active community and many treasured friendships. In addition, Melrose Lane was named in the park in her honor.

Melrose had a creative spirit and found great joy in sewing and making crafts. She was especially known for her holiday baking. Every Christmas, she filled the house with an assortment of homemade cookies. Her children and grandchildren knew exactly where they were kept and would quietly sneak into the garage to "borrow" a few, hiding their favorites to enjoy later before anyone noticed they were gone. It became a family tradition that still brings smiles and laughter.

Melrose is survived by her devoted husband of 74 years, Lee Bussard; her sons, Brian Bussard of Califon, New Jersey, and Brad Bussard (Diana) of Lexington, South Carolina; her grandchildren, Wendy Bussard, Katelyn Steifel (Erich), Emily Bussard, Mel Bussard (Christina), Michele Beam, and Sarah Pardue (Jay); several beloved great-grandchildren; and many extended family members, and dear friends which include park management.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willis and Helen Richardson; her brother, Odell Richardson; her daughter, Sandra Darlene Matlick; and her grandson, Jason Carey.

Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless memories she created throughout her 92 years.

A private celebration of Melrose's life will be held at a later date.

"A life filled with love leaves a legacy that lasts forever."