Melva Lillian (Hudson) Lopez

Melva Lillian Hudson Lopez, 101, of Fayetteville, NC, passed away on April 24, 2024 peacefully in her sleep.

Melva was born on November 11, 1922 to Mabel and Thomas Hudson in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, Canada.

In 1950, She met Fritoso Raymond Lopez, and they wed in 1951, going on to have 5 children, Jean Nease (husband Jeff), Zarra Smith (husband Rusty), Adella Lopez, Abby Perdue (husband Billy), Julie Swift (husband Mike). Melva was an amazing, loving mom and grandmother to her family and she loved Jesus with all her heart.

Melva was an amazing artist and was passionate at her craft. She traveled all over the east coast doing portraits at Arts and Crafts shows. Her work is well known and can be found all over the country.

Melva was also a missionary with our dad and traveled during summers across the country up to the Northwest Territory of Canada to minister to the Indians in that area.

Melva was predeceased by Fritz Lopez, husband, and Zarra Smith, daughter and Allison Reeves, granddaughter and brother, Bill Waldrop. She is survived by her four daughters, Jean, Adella, Abby and Julie; 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren; Her sister, Gail Hutchens, and many nieces and nephews.

A quote by Melva during an interview with Fayetteville Observer - “It's been really a lovely life. I don't know half the time what I'm doing, but I have enjoyed every minute.”

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to her granddaughter serving with CRU at give.cru.org/0732922; or you can mail check to CRU, PO BOX 628222, Orlando, FL 32862-8222 and reference Acct#0732922.

There will be a Graveside Service at Sandhills Cemetery at 12:00pm, Monday, May 20, 2024. Visitation for family at home following service.

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