Melody Ann Caney

Melody Ann Caney, age 83, of Midland, passed away on September 19, 2025. Born on August 12, 1942, in Hastings, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Roy and Donna (Francis) Garner.

Melody graduated from Midland High School in 1960. She attended Bay City Junior College briefly. Then earned a CNA from Burlington County Hospital in Mt. Holly, NJ, in 1964. In the 1980s, she returned to school and graduated from Delta College with an associate degree in science (Phi Theta Kappa). This led to her career as a lab technician at Dow Chemical. Melody was an avid reader, especially of James Patterson novels. She volunteered for Crisis Pregnancy Services, organizing clothes for families with children, and met many good friends through Twin Club. A talented seamstress, she made many outfits for her children when they were young. Melody also enjoyed painting ceramics and was an active member of a bowling league. She was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church, where she helped organize the library.

On March 13, 1961, Melody married Victor "Dennis" Caney in Bay City. Together, they participated in NOMADS (United Methodist mission work) and enjoyed camping. She is survived by their daughters, Teresa Brink, Barbara Caney, and Margaret (Chad) Warmbier; grandchildren, Brandon Brink, Meagan Brink (Dane Zirwes), Lauren (Andrew) Neil, Kathryn (Joseph) Knoff, and Zane Gray; great-grandchildren, Victoria Neil and Evelyn Neil; and siblings, Marilyn (Jack) Klang, Joe Garner, Sally (Craig) Lake, and Doug (Prudy) Garner; along with Denny's family, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Melody was preceded in death by her husband Dennis, their son-in-law, David Brink, and their sister-in-law, Betty Garner.

Melody's life will be celebrated in a service to be held at First United Methodist Church, 315 W. Larkin St., Midland, MI 48640 on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 11:00 am, with Rev. Bethany Maciejewski officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until the time of service.  Please consider contributions to Grace A. Dow Memorial Library in Midland.  Arrangements are under the care of Wilson Miller Funeral Home.