Melody Banister (Courtesy)

Melody Ann Chelluk Banister went home to her Lord and Savior on August 18, 2026, in Braselton, Georgia, with her family by her side.

Melody was born August 24, 1952, to the late Walter “Chuck” Martin Chelluk, Sr., and Myrtle Robinson Chelluk in Sumter, South Carolina. On July 3, 1982, she married Wayne Banister of Hartwell, Georgia. She spent several years as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and substitute teacher, in addition to being a dedicated mother.

A member of and active volunteer at Lakewood Baptist Church, Melody found great joy from the fellowship of her Sunday school class and choir. In addition to spending time with her immediate and extended family, Melody enjoyed baking, reading, watching British murder mysteries, and cheering on her beloved Clemson Tigers.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers, Donald Osborne and Walter “Mark” Martin Chelluk, Jr.

She is survived by her husband, Wayne, daughters Amber McMurry (Keith) and Jill, grandson David McMurry, and brother Francis “Butch” Wesley Chelluk. She is also dearly remembered by her sisters-in-law, six nieces, one nephew, and many grand- and great-grand nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse International Relief.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Send online condolences to memorialparkfuneralhomes.com

This announcement courtesy of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.