A memorial service celebrating the life of Melissa will be held Saturday, March 30, 2013, at 11:00 A.M. in the San Benito High School auditorium, followed by a reception in the cafeteria. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements through Black Cooper Sander Funeral Home
Melissa McNown Brandon, 63, of Hollister, CA. passed away Thursday, March 14th, 2013.
Melissa was born and raised in Hollister, CA to the late Virginia and Willard McNown where Willard was one of the first chiropractors in town. She was the middle child of three siblings. She graduated from San Benito High School and then went on to attend California State University, Fresno where she graduated with a masters in communicative disorders for the deaf and hard of hearing.
She later met the love of her life, Dr. William H. Brandon in Merced, CA, a pilot in the air force at the time; six months later they were married.
After Melissa and William were married, they moved to Riverside, CA where William was stationed during his time in the military. A few years later, they decided together that William would pursue a career as a Chiropractor; the family then moved to Washington so that William could! attend Chiropractic College.
Melissa meanwhile worked and took care of the family in support of the decision to put William through Chiropractic College.
Once William completed Chiropractic College the two decided to move back to Melissa’s home town (Hollister) to be near family. At that time they already had four boys. Melissa gave birth to her youngest child Lindsey – an unexpected miracle, and the girl they always wanted.
Melissa loved Jesus and had five children who were her pride and joy. After spending time as a stay at home mom for a few years until Lindsey started school, Melissa went back to work as a teacher for the deaf and hard of hearing for the County of San Benito.
Melissa was passionate about making a difference in the lives of her students. She cherished spending time with her family, friends, and students. She also enjoyed reading, hiking, playing tennis, and being active outdoors.
Melissa is survived by her beloved husband, Dr. William H. Brandon Jr.; of Hollister CA.; children Chad, Kyle, Beau, Drew, Lindsey, daughter-in-law Jessica, daughter-in-law Nora, daughter-in-law Andrea and daughter-in-law Jenna; grandchildren Alyssa, Bevyn, Chucky, Bryce, Evan, Luke, Paul, Shaela, Shiloh, and Shalom; brother Jeff McNown and sister-in-law Colleen McNown.
