Melody Lyn Hathcock Tart

She grew up in Stanly County, North Carolina, outside of Charlotte, and moved to Raleigh to attend NC State University. After graduating, she remained in Raleigh and met her husband of nearly 36 years while working at the Coca-Cola Bottling Company.

Melody lived a life of service. She was an active member of the Apex High School Athletic Booster Club, or Cougar Club (and no not that kind of cougar), even earning the title “Concession Stand Queen." Upon her retirement in 2016, she was awarded the Long Leaf Pine and Cardinal Awards after 30 years of service as a North Carolina State Employee. Even in retirement, she continued to serve her community as a member of the Master Gardener Volunteers with the NC Cooperative Extension-Wake County.

She had a hard time sitting still. Whether cooking for a crowd, gardening or working on one of her many craft projects (so many craft projects), she was always doing something. The only time she sat still was to watch the Wolfpack play. She cheered loudly and proudly for the Pack, no matter how the season was going.

She faced every challenge life gave her head-on and with a smile on her face. She was the embodiment of grace and southern hospitality. Not even the daunting task of feeding the Apex High School Football Team before every game phased her. She put her heart and soul into everything she did and her bright smile brought joy to all those who met her.

She is survived by her devoted husband Bill Tart, children Kristin Tart and Jacob Tart, parents Edward and Carolyn Hathcock, and two loving cats.

A celebration of life is planned for this fall. She did not want a sad funeral in the North Carolina summer heat.

We would like to express our thanks to Duke HomeCare & Hospice and Transitions LIfeCare for their wonderful support and care. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Transitions LIfeCare or the Kay Yow Cancer Fund.