Melanie Perterson's Obituary
Melanie Perterson Obituary
Melanie Denise Peterson-Ware was born March G, 1960 to the union of Elizabeth and William Ware. Melanie lived her childhood life with her brother William (Bill) Junior, mother, and father on Winchester Street in Harvey, Illinois.
In 1978, Melanie graduated from Thornton Township High School in located in Harvey, IL. where she participated in many clubs and extracurricular activities. She continued her education at South Suburban Community College, earning her associate's degree in nursing. As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Melanie served many patients as a home healthcare nurse for wounded veterans; worked at Oak Forest Hospital for 16 years; then returned to home healthcare for the remainder of her nursing career. Melanie's most beloved patient was her Aunt Bernice Griffith AKA Aunt Bonnie; whom she served until her own health declined.
Melanie will always be remembered for being a free-spirit, "the life of the party," who enjoyed dancing, singing, and playing cards. She never attended a family gathering without hitting the dance floor to "step" to her favorite "dusties" or old school music. Melanie's favorite musical group of all time was the Jackson 5; and everyone who knew Melanie understood that her favorite artist was Michael Jackson. One of her most cherished memories was taking her daughter, Brandy, to a Micheal Jackson concert in the 1990's.
Melanie experienced a major cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease.
In October of 2024, Melanie's physical health rapidly declined; and as a result,
Melanie was on Hospice Care from November 2024 until she transitioned on March 31, 2025.
Melanie was preceded in death by her father, William D. Ware Senior;
mother Elizabeth S. Ware; brother William D. Ware Junior (Billy); and grandson, Tariq Crump (Brandy's son). Melanie leaves many loved ones to cherish her memories: daughter Brandy N. Brown (Calvin) and son Marvin D. Jackson Junior. She will also be missed by her grandchildren Myles and Bria Crump; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
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