Melinda Bernadette Franco

Redding, CA

Melinda Bernadette Franco, 85 yrs old, went home to the Lord on Feb. 21, 2018. Born on Aug. 6, 1932 in Makawao on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The 2nd of 7 children of Peter G. Franco and Lucy S. Franco. She lived a full life of service to others as she was devoted to God. After graduation from Maui High School in 1951, she went to Los Angeles, CA to join the Convent of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet at St. Mary's Academy. For nearly 10 years she taught 3rd grade classes, as Sister Melinda Marie, in San Diego and Oakland. Her focus was Music Appreciation.

Leaving the Convent prior to taking her final vows, she enlisted in the Woman's Army Corps and retired from the Army as a Master Sargent, after serving 20 yrs as an Administrative Specialist.

After retiring she moved to Anderson, CA and became a very active member of the Parish at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She was a member of the choir and various Parish committees. She volunteered countless hours at the Sacred Heart Thrift store, almost daily, until she could no longer drive.

She is survived by her Brother, Damien and sister-in-law, Judy Franco, as well as, 12 nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her mother and father, as well as, her brothers, Walter and Albert, and her sisters, Lorraine, Barbara, and Elizabeth.

Vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30pm at MacDonald Chapel in Redding. Funeral Mass will be at 11:00am on Mar. 2 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Anderson. Burial will be at 2:00pm on Mar. 5 in Santa Clara, CA at the Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.