Melanie Rutledge Crumpton, 54, of James Island, SC, passed away on May 24th, 2025.

A celebration of life will be held at the Pelican Watch Pavilion at the Folly Beach County Park on June 24th, from 5-9 pm to honor Melanie's legacy, spirit, and contribution to the community.

Melanie was born in Glasgow, KY on May 19th, 1971. She enjoyed reading, paddleboarding, and winning at cards.  Some of her favorite escapes were the mountains of Western North Carolina, music, sunshine, and good food.   Melanie worked as a Media Specialist/Librarian for the James Island Charter High School for 20 years. She was active in the James Island Charter High School, both as the Senior Librarian and playing a vital role in the leadership council.  Melanie had a positive impact on her colleagues and many past and present students at JICHS.  She had a knack for remembering many of the students and referred to avid book lovers as "my library kids."  Melanie had an innate skill for finding books that would interest each student asking for recommendations.  She was passionate about reading and the worlds it can open up for young people.

Melanie is survived by her husband, Roman; two children, Corinne and Sam; her parents, Charles Edward (C.E.) and Jane Rutledge of Apex, NC; and her brother Derek, his wife Amy, and their children Owen, Gus, and Tess also of Apex, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to be provided to the YALL festival supporting Young Adult Literature. https://yallfestcharleston.bigcartel.com/product/yallfest-contribution .