Melanie Coy

Melanie Coy, 62, of Jackson died Sunday, Sept. 2, 2018, at St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois.

She was born March 10, 1956, in Cape Girardeau to Stoy G. and Grace Sailer Coy.

She was a graduate of Cape Girardeau Central High School.

She worked at Budget Blinds and Scott County Auto Supply.

Her heart and soul were for her animals. Her life mission was to be an advocate for all homeless and abused animals.

Melanie was a pit bull fancier for 29 years. She also has been involved in obedience and other training and showing animals. She became involved in animal legislative issues in the mid-80s to dispel myths about the pit bull breed and fight against breed-specific laws. She advocated responsible dog ownership through training and educational programs and helped shelters make dogs more adoptable.

Survivors include her mother, Grace Coy of Cape Girardeau; two brothers, Randy Coy of Jackson and Donald (Carrie) Coy of Cape Girardeau; an aunt, Verla Sailer; two nieces; a nephew; three great-nieces; and three great-nephews.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to noon Monday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Graveside service will follow at noon Monday at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum in Cape Girardeau, with the Rev. Dan Johnson officiating. Entombment will be at the mausoleum.

Memorial contributions may be given to Mac's Mission, Missouri Veterans Home or a charity of choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.