Melanie Gaye Breeding, 58, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away at home on Monday, April 13, 2026. She was born on February 12, 1968, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Max Glen Breeding and Betty Wilkins Chafton.

Melanie was a loving mother who truly cherished her family, her friends, and the simple joys of life.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Betty Wilkins Chafton, her stepbrother, Ritchie Chafton, and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

Melanie is survived by her son, Christopher Bryan Holden; her father, Max Breeding; her sister, Gwen Thomas; her brother, Greg Breeding and wife Lanie; her stepfather, Doug Chafton; and her stepbrother, Rob Chafton and wife Laura.

She loved deeply and lived fully. She treasured her family and adored her nieces and nephews. She was devoted to caring for her son, Bryan, who was the center of her world. She enjoyed family gatherings, time spent on Lake Ouachita, and long conversations on the phone. She found comfort and joy in the quiet moments, especially on her deck caring for her plants and watching the rabbits and hummingbirds. She also adored the endless affection she received from her beloved cat, Mya.

Melanie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She is now in the hands of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and her memory will forever live on in our hearts.