Melinda Leanne Lovell Matthews

Melinda Leanne Lovell Matthews, 49, died at her home in Maumelle, Arkansas on August 10, 2015 after a brave battle with cancer. Melinda leaves her husband Damen Matthews of Maumelle, Arkansas, her uncle Charles Stevens of North Little Rock, Arkansas, and her aunt Linda Stevens of North Little Rock, Arkansas. Melinda was born on October 23, 1965 in Newport, Arkansas to Richard Odell Lovell and Eva Mae Mangus. In 1994 she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Behavioral Science from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. Melinda subsequently moved to Batesville, Arkansas when she began working for Health Resources of Arkansas. She would continue at HRA for 25 years, dedicated to working with children and families through the Youth Center and Aftercare. Shortly after becoming disabled by her disease, Melinda was awarded the CASSP/SOC Area 6 2014 Starfish Award in recognition of her significant contribution to Community Awareness of Mental Health Recovery and Resiliency. On April 15, 2015 in Alexander, Arkansas Melinda married Damen Matthews who moved from California a year earlier to be with her. In addition, she will be remembered for loving her cats, nature, and art. A Memorial service is scheduled for 4 p.m. Saturday, August 29th at 121 Limoges Court, Maumelle, Ark. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Melinda's life. You may sign Melinda's on-line guestbook at www.griffinleggett.com.