Melanie Colleen Ward age 55 of Keystone Heights passed away Wednesday, November 2, 2022, following an extended illness. She was born July 7, 1967, in Gainesville to John and Betty (Tyre) Avinger and grew up in the Santa Fe and LaCrosse area. Melanie moved to Keystone Heights five years ago to be with her family. She enjoyed going to the beach and the peacefulness it would bring to her. Her favorite time of the year was definitely Christmas, but most of all she loved spending time with her family. In addition to her father she was also preceded in death by her brother Adam Avinger and step-father Joe Norris. Melanie leaves behind a daughter Ashley Bennett and her husband Kyle along with her mother Betty Norris all of Keystone Heights and was lovingly called "Nana" by her grandson Leland Bennet. Also left behind is her niece Amber Maddox of Georgia and a nephew Dakota Avinger of Worthington Springs along with several cousins all whom will miss her dearly. There are no scheduled services at this time. The family has requested that memorial gifts be made to one of Melanies favorites, Operation Christmas Child. Arrangements are by JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights, FL 32656. (352)473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com Funeral Home Jones - Gallagher Funeral Home - Keystone Heights 340 East Walker Drive Keystone Heights FL - 32656 US (352) 473-3176