Oda Melton Hobbs

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Oda Melton Hobbs (Mel), who graduated to heaven in the wee hours of Jan 28, 2025, at the age of 94. Mel was an awesome dad, devoted grandpa, cool uncle, neighborhood dad who knew all your friends’ names and talked to them. He loved his family unconditionally. There was never a family gathering he would miss, attending with his cherished wife Betty. His grandchildren witnessed Mel & Betty at birthdays, graduations, little league games, anytime there was an invitation. His grandchildren would drop by often, even unannounced, as they were always welcome. 

Mel was born on Aug 01, 1930, in Columbia SC. Soon after Mel was born, his brother Hammon, and parents Hammon H Sr & Margaret K. Hobbs moved to Silver Spring MD. Mel lived in Silver Spring until he left for the Navy. Mel finished Montgomery Blair High School, enlisted in the US Navy and served in the Korean War on the aircraft carrier Philippine Sea. Upon discharge from the Navy Mel worked for C&P Telephone Co, eventually retiring as Marketing Manager. His final position with the longest tenure was being a grandpa. By far his greatest accomplishment. 

Mel married Margaret Gilson (Betty) in May 1952. Betty was the sister of a close friend Jack Gilson. They were married for 69 years, until Betty’s passing. Raising David Hobbs (Sandy), Dennis Hobbs (Valerie), Scott Hobbs (Becky), Cynthia Bloomhall (John), and moms favorite: Celeste Levine (David), in a home filled with laughter, love, and chaos. Mel’s tag line was “nobody would believe the way I live”

As the family grew, Mel & Betty were rewarded with 14 grandchildren, and 26 great grandchildren. 

Mel & Betty were a team. They will be remembered for their kindness and generosity. Their legacy is one of love and compassion, teaching us all the value of kindness and the importance of making a difference in the lives of others. Mel & Betty’s memory will live on through the countless lives they touched.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 3, during the hours of 2-4 PM at Stauffer Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike Frederick MD, where family and friends will gather to honor their memory and share stories. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, February 4, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 27015 Ridge Road, Damascus. Interment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church Damascus MD.