Melissa Colman

On January 21st1973, whether or not the world was prepared, Melissa Anne Colman (later known as Gwendolyn) appeared. A poster child of non-conformity with the spirit of an Eagle & the voice of an angel, she embraced life to its fullest. A gypsy at heart, in her travels she sought friendship, beauty, music, nature & faith, discovering it all. Gwen's acts of kindness, selflessness & love mixed with her razor sharp with & unbridled creativity are known to many. Going without, she gave of herself freely showing compassion for those in need. A weekly highlight was Thursdays preparing & serving meals at the Bread of Life in Brevard, NC. Gwendolyn marched to a different drummer; from Kalamazoo to Colorado, Montana, Louisiana then North Carolina on a musical & spiritual journey- she touched so many lives. She witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall, bringing back a piece, studied vocal performance at the University of Iowa, sang the role of Annie & in other musicals, explored the rich musical heritage of New Orleans & joined kindred spirits with Sean Johnson & The Wild Lotus Band. The band's album, "Unity" debuted #1 on the iTunes World Music charts & #3 on Billboard charts. Their latest album "Mystery "was named one of the best albums in Louisiana by Offbeat Magazine. All the while Gwen deeply loved & was loved by family & friends, some of whom watched on with a mixture of apprehension, awe, concern & appreciation for her life. She was taken so early from us all & countless hearts are broken. In her honor we ask that all who knew Gwen sing a song, watch the sun rise & set, climb a mountain, help someone in need, make someone roar with laugh with a spontaneous act of silliness, face a fear, or attempt a feat. Do this knowing Gwen enters her next spiritual journey.

Gwen was preceeded in death by her beloved father, Robert & is survived by her mother, Penny Colman-Crandal (Dave), siblings Gretchen (Bruce) Johnson, Robert (Pendy), Colleen, Mark (Nancy), & David (Ann).

A memorial will be held on July 19, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. Location: Faith Memorial Chaoel, 11 Faith Chapel Rd., Cedar Mountain, NC.

Online of flowers the family suggests a donation might be made in Gwen's name to Bread of Life Brevard, Junior Appalachian Musicians, or to a charity of your choice.