It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Melany Thum McAleer, who left us on January 30, 2025. Born as Gaye Thum, in 1949, she was known by many as Mama, though she preferred Melany, and most recently, Grandma. She is survived by her sons, John and Mackenze, her sister, Paula, Sharon, Joe and many, many people worldwide who loved, cherished her, and will miss her dearly.

Melany was described by those who knew her as sweet, hilarious, and wise. She had an outrageous, gregarious personality that could light up any room. She loved to share ’gee whizzes’ with those around her, always reminding them to “…be grateful to be breathing.”, “Love, and love some more.” and "Give all of your heart and soul, and all shall be yours".

Her life was rich with accomplishment. In the 60s, she was an advocate for personal freedom and independent media, with the free ranger tribe, underground press syndicate, and High Times Magazine. She lived, loved and traveled with many of the biggest names in music, culture and media, at the time. In the 70s, she graced South Florida's radio airwaves as a disc jockey for country, rock, and jazz stations, reading the news and spinning records. She was a very successful outside advertising saleswoman in the 80s and 90s, giving 17 years to Bellsouth, and was a member of the CWA. 

Her roles extended beyond the professional sphere. She was a master of gardening, bonsai and organizing. She was an artist, a place where God shines through and the hostess of many full and new Moon night ‘Goddess gatherings’, throughout the Americas.  

Melany served as a maternal figure, dear friend and radiant inspiration to many people, friends, family, loved ones and strangers alike. 

She lived mostly in the Southeastern USA, in Florida, the Carolinas, Alabama, Panamá for almost 10 years, and died while living with her family, in Austin, Texas.

The world without Melany McAleer will undeniably be a colder place, devoid of her warmth, love, and light. Her legacy, however, will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Thousands of people worldwide remember Melany as the bubbly, smiling, bowing, and laughing force of nature she was.

A Celebration of Life for Melany will be held on February 9, 2025, from 2:30 - 5 PM, at 7412 Albert Rd. Austin, TX 78745. Flowers may be sent before the event, care of Farrah, or brought to the remembrance. 

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