BRIDGEVILLE - Dorothy Smith Melson, 79-years-old, died on Saturday, June 18th, 2016 at her home with her husband of 62 years by her side. After her valiant fight with Breast Cancer in 2005, Dorothy's battle resumed in May 2010 with two strokes, which left her paralyzed on her right side. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in God, and the special love and care from her wonderful husband carried her through for five more years. She was then diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis which was the final kick in the butt. Through all of her illnesses she always remained a wonderful, loving, giving mother, grandmother, sister and wife. Dorothy was born on April 20th, 1937 in Drums, Pennsylvania to Elwood and Larraine Smith. After moving from Pa. to Delaware, she met her husband, Jack Melson. They were married on October 30th, and have been together for 62 years. She will be remembered for her amazing artistic talents, be it painting, ceramics, and many other projects. She always loved to create and try new things and soon became an expert on the computer. Even up to the last week of her life she enjoyed playing games and going on face book. As a child, she possessed a special talent of playing the piano which she was able to play any song by ear. She had a wonderful laugh and was a great listener. Throughout her life she maintained a sweet and simple demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many, who even now are being changed by her witness of constant love and faith. Her signature streak of stubbornness, her gift of joy, and her constant smiling, laughter, and joking around, will never be forgotten. Her surviving family members are numerous, but mainly include her husband of 62 years, Jack F. Melson; she was a mother of two children, Randy and (Nanette) Melson and Terry and (Blaine) Breeding; grandmother of five, Blaine J. and (Nina) Breeding, Randall and (Stacy) Melson, Jeremy and (Dawn) Melson, Brandon and (Amy) Breeding and Truston J. Breeding; great-grandmother of five, Alyssa Melson, Kaylea Melson, Cheyanne Melson, Nolan Breeding and Darcy Breeding; two sisters and three brothers, Bernice and (Robert) Hayes, Robert and (Marty) Smith, Kenneth and (Jean) Smith, Elaine Rust, and Charles and (Marlena) Smith; in-law's, Charles and (Roseanne) Melson, Ann and (Les) Pinkett, Michael and (Debbie) Melson; and loved by many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. The family is deeply grateful for the wonderful care and services from those at Compassionate Care Hospice. She had an amazing team that visited her weekly and we appreciate all of your love and support. Services will be private. Arrangements are by Fleischauer Funeral Home, Greenwood.