March 26, 2024, 57, Goldsboro —

Melody Hicks James, 57, was received into the arms of her Savior in the early hours of Tuesday, March 26, 2024. She was born to Mary Susan Sullivan Hicks of Goldsboro and the late William Frank Hicks on May 11, 1966. In addition to her father, Melody was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Casper and Geraldine Hicks, and her maternal grandparents, Clifton and Dorothy Sullivan.

As a member of Stoney Creek O.F.W.B. Church, Melody was faithful to her Lord by offering her skillset to various ministries. An active member of the Ladies Auxiliary, she served in many capacities including president for several terms. Melody was also a pivotal member of the Crusaders for Christ Sunday School Class.

With a heart for helping children, Melody found a calling to help the children from the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home. For years, she organized their Christmas parties at Stoney Creek and ensured that each child received gifts.

Invested in the lives of her children, Melody became involved wherever her girls were involved. From church activities, recitals, and sports to programs at school, Melody offered her time and talents where they prospered. She was always the loudest parent there, excited to cheer for her children. While her children were students at Wayne Christian School, she also served as a substitute teacher. Melody even taught a food and nutrition class there as well.

Although Melody’s health and mobility had declined in the last years, she always found ways to serve others. A master at online shopping, she handled business from home through shopping and organizing. Always willing to help where she could, she remained a vital blessing to her family, church, and friends.

You didn’t have to be around Melody long to know of her love for Diet Pepsi. She was as grateful for the Pepsi company as they were for her, for she usually stocked enough Pepsi to keep the company in business. While Pepsi was at the top of the list for favorites, she also had a fondness for the Peanuts cartoons, Gone With the Wind, Mickey Mouse, and Krispy Kreme.

For Melody, the family was her greatest accomplishment and chief blessing. Her life was complete with the love of her husband, children, and her dearest grandson, Peyton.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 29, 2024, from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Stoney Creek O.F.W.B. Church followed by a service at 4:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Josh Whitfield and Pastor Barry Williamson officiating. Interment will be in the Pikeville Cemetery.

In addition to her mother, Melody is survived by her husband of 38 years, Phil James; daughters, Rebecca James Cann and husband, Trevor and Joanna James; grandson, Peyton Cann; brothers, Larry Hicks and wife, Melissa, Garry Hicks and wife, Vickie, and William Hicks; sister, Frances Mandeville and husband, Marc; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins she loved very much.

Special thanks to her wonderful neighbors, church friends, and the nurses and doctors who cared for her and her family in so many kind and thoughtful ways through the years and during this time of loss.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in Melody’s memory to

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.