Melonie Suzette Coles Baker

Legacy of Love Melonie Suzette Coles Baker was born on December 25th, 1958, to Alexander Coles Sr. and Shirley Coles. Delivered by her father at home, Melonie was placed under the Christmas tree as the most cherished gift that year, a symbol of joy she would bring throughout her life. Melonie accepted Christ as her Savior at an early age and remained steadfast in her faith. She was a devoted member of 31st Street Baptist Church, later worshipping at Westside Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. Upon her return to Richmond, VA in 1995 she continued her faith journey at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church. A woman of intellect and discipline, Melonie had a deep passion for learning. She attended Armstrong High School where she was a fire spinning majorette, top ranked tennis player, and academic darling. After graduating in 1977, she went on to attend Virginia State University on a four-year scholarship. There she earned a Certificate of Academic Achievement in 1978 and her Bachelor of Science in 1981. Following her time at VSU, she moved to Houston, TX to pursue a career opportunity with Continental Oil Company. Driven by her commitment to growth, she stepped away to further her education, enrolling at the University of South Carolina, where she earned her degree of Master of Science in 1983. Her academic excellence and dedication to community were recognized when she was named one of the Outstanding Young Women of America for 1982 which was featured in the Church Hill Spotlight. She continued to reach back with love of supporting her community and in 1984, she received a Certificate of Recognition & Appreciation from 31st Street Baptist Church for her dedicated services to Operation Homework. In October of 1986, Melonie met her future husband, Weldon Baker Jr. Just six months later, they were married and relocated to Dallas, Texas, where Melonie continued her career as a geologist with Mobil Oil Company. During their time in Texas, they welcomed two daughters, Candace Baker and Janelle Baker. When the family of four returned to Richmond, Melonie transitioned into a career in education. As an extended substitute teacher and homeschool educator, she poured her knowledge, patience, and care into every student she encountered, leaving a lasting impact on many. Even during her courageous and arduous fight with Multiple Sclerosis, Melonie remained a beacon of strength, grace, and unwavering faith. She continued to uplift those around her with her warmth, her encouragement, and her deep love of God. She continued to bring joy and love to family and friends, students and strangers while praising God and encouraging others with her warm and loving personality. She found joy in journaling, reading the Bible, and spending time with her large and beloved family and friends. Melonie’s spirit was massively strong and stubbornly joyful. She had a playful, endearing silliness that brought light into every room. She affectionately named her cane “Charlie Cane” and her walker “Charlie Walker,” often entertaining those around her with a beloved impression she called “Aunt Ruth.” Even in life’s most difficult moments, she chose joy, and in doing so, she gave others permission to do the same. Melonie was preceded in death by her parents Shirley and Alexander Elijah Coles Sr., and her brothers, Eugene W. Coles Sr. and Curtis H. Coles. Melonie leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Weldon Baker Jr.; her daughters, Candace M. Baker and Janelle E. Baker; and her grand-daughter, Jamya E. Baker. She is also survived by her brothers, Alexander Coles Jr. (Stella), Frank Coles Sr. (Rachel), and Milton Coles (Jackie); her sister, Mary Charity; her aunt, Irene Coles Brice; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and adoring friends and more family.

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Melonie Suzette Coles Baker

December 25, 1958 - April 11, 2026