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Melody's obituary

Melody Jan Collier-Hendry 

 December 6, 1962 – February 14, 2025 

Melody Jan Collier-Hendry, lovingly known as “Mimi” by her family, passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 62. She was born on December 6, 1962, in Temple, Texas, and graduated from Abilene High School.

Melody dedicated her career to working with MHMR clients, where her patience and ability to connect with people left a lasting impact. She was a loving and caring woman who always put others before herself.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Beulah E. Collier and Arnie S. Collier; siblings, Jimmy Hanna, Carolyn Sanders, Linda Bays, and Carl Hartness; as well as, her life partner, Michael L. Stone. 

Melody is survived by; the light of her life, her son, Gabriel Hendry; one brother, Sammy Malloy; three sisters, Beulah Alice, Violet Vaughn, and Darwinna Bomar; as well as her nieces Avis Sosa, Angela Dallies, and great-niece Asia, all of whom lovingly called her Mimi. 

She is also survived by Mitchell Stone, Michael "Mikey" Stone, and Samantha Stone, the children of her late life partner, whom she cared for deeply.

Additionally, Melody is survived by her former stepdaughters, Cheri Valverde and Jessica Vasquez, who remained an important part of her life.

Melody and Gabriel shared a special bond, with Gabriel heroically saving his mother from a fire when their house tragically burned down in October, a true reflection of their unbreakable connection.

Melody enjoyed Pink Floyd, oldies music, and was known for rescuing strays, always opening her heart and home to animals in need.

We want people to remember her as a woman who loved deeply, gave selflessly, and made the world brighter with her kindness. Her heart welcomed everyone, her strength carried those she loved, and her spirit will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be Thursday, February 27th from 4pm-8pm at Girdner Funeral Home.

A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church Abilene, 1312 North 2nd Street, on March 1st at 2 PM. Attendees should use the south entrance between Hickory Street and Orange Street on North Second. The service will take place on the second floor.

**Melody’s legacy is one of boundless love, resilience, and a profound dedication to those she cared about. Above all, she was a mother whose world revolved around her son, Gabriel. Her legacy also includes the quiet strength she showed through her work, where she brought comfort and care to those in need, as well as the way she gave of herself without hesitation—whether rescuing animals or offering support to family and friends. Melody's legacy is a reminder of the power of compassion, the importance of family, and the difference one person can make in the lives of others, simply by being there and showing love.**

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Whenever I needed you or just when I needed to talk, you were always there and now you’re gone see you soon sister.
Whenever I needed you or just when I needed to talk, you were always there and now you’re gone see …
Whenever I needed you or just when I needed to talk, you were al…

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Melody "Mimi" Collier- Hendry