Melinda (Kidd) Wolf

     Melinda (Kidd) Wolf, a beloved wife, mother, educator, and inspiration to many, peacefully passed away in her sleep, surrounded by her family, on October 21, 2023, at 5:02 a.m.  She was born at home in Carrier Mills on October 8, 1959, and graduated from Carrier Mills High School in 1976.  Her journey of learning continued as she earned degrees from Southeastern Illinois College and Southern Illinois University of Carbondale, culminating in the achievement of her Masters of Education.

     Family was the cornerstone of Melinda’s life, and in 1990, she exchanged vows with Robert “Rod” Wolf.  Their union was blessed with the joy of two daughters, Meredith and Micaylen.  For nearly two decades, Melinda served as a dedicated reading specialist at West Side Elementary in Harrisburg, leaving an indelible mark on the countless young lives she touched.

     Beyond her professional endeavors, Melinda was an avid reader and enjoyed time in the sun, whether by the pool or at the beach.  Her love for life was undeterred, even when faced with the most aggressive form of brain cancer, which she was diagnosed with in February 2014.  For nearly a decade, she displayed remarkable courage, becoming a symbol of hope for those who shared her diagnosis and crossed her path during her treatments at Mayo Clinic.  Melinda’s resilience knew no bounds.

     Melinda had the rare gift of never meeting a stranger, she greeted everyone with her warm smile and engaging conversation.  Her faith in Christ was steadfast throughout her life, and now, she has been called home to reunite with her husband, Robert “Rod” Wolf, her parents Beulah and Albert Kidd, and her brother-in-law, Joseph Sexton.  She leaves behind her cherished daughters, Micaylen and Meredith Wolf; her sister, Melody Sexton; grand-kitties Murphy, Momo and Margot; as well as brother-in-law Thomas “Tom” Wolf, Jr., his wife Janet, nephew Tommy, niece Julie and grand-nephew Jayden; sister-in-law Diane Bender and family, and countless friends.

     To honor her memory, a Celebration of Life will take place at Stricklin Funeral Home in Harrisburg on Saturday, October 28, at 2 PM.  The family will receive friends from 10 AM until the service hour. In accordance with Melinda’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, she kindly requested donations by made to the Hope Lodge at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota (411 Second St. NW, Rochester, MN  55901).  This gesture would reflect her enduring spirit of giving, echoing the generosity she experienced during her journey. 

     Melinda’s legacy will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.  Condolences may be left for her family on her obituary page at www.stricklinfuneralhome.com.

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