Melanie Thomas Meade

Melanie Thomas Meade, 58, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

Melanie was born on May 23, 1967 in Lexington, South Carolina. She was the only child to the late William Horace “Bill” Thomas and Shelba Gandy Thomas. She quickly became the Thomas/Gandy princess with her beautiful locks of blonde hair and the cutest of smiles.

Melanie attended elementary, middle, and high school through Lexington County School District Two schools in West Columbia. She graduated from Airport High School in 1985. She made many lifetime friends during her school years and while growing up in West Columbia and Laurie Acres. During the many years she lived in Southington, CT, where she raised her three children, she made many friends who fell in love with her southern accent and charm.

Melanie was a caregiver to many during her life and something she was very passionate about, including being there and caring for her mom in her final days. Melanie will be remembered for her warmth and the way she made people feel welcomed and cared for.

Melanie is survived by her children, son, Peter Joseph “PJ” Meade, Jr. (Jackie), son, William James Holian, and daughter, Cynthia Earline McKeown, as well as her granddaughters, Amalia “Lia” James, Aubrey Frances, and Andi Jo Meade. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins who loved her dearly.

She leaves behind her beloved dog, Rainey, who will remain a member of her family through adoption by an extended family member.

Melanie loved dogs and cats and cared for and baby-sat for many during her life. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her honor to Pets Inc., a local animal rescue serving the South Carolina Midlands (https://petsinc.org/donate/), 300 Orchard Drive, West Columbia, SC 29170.

Though her loss leaves an immeasurable void, her love and the memories shared with her will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Melanie’s life will be held on June 5, 2026, at Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington, 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington, SC. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and remember Melanie from 11am until 1pm.