Ms. Melissa Mae (Carter) Stanley

Evans Funeral Home of Jefferson announces the death of Ms. Melissa Mae Stanley, age 59, of Jefferson, Georgia, who entered rest Wednesday, December 11, 2024. Ms. Stanley was born in Spearfish, South Dakota, the daughter of the late Ernest Carter and Clarabelle Mills Carter of Springfield, Missouri. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a sister, Delores Carter.

Ms. Stanley dedicated her career to serving as a skilled and highly respected Court Reporter with the Gwinnett County Government. Known for her precision and professionalism, she was sought after and played a vital role in capturing the official record of court proceedings, ensuring justice and accuracy for her community. Her colleagues admired her steadfast work ethic, and her contributive dedication to her career that laid the groundwork for competitive pay, benefits and transition for Court Reporters as government employees were deeply valued by many in her field.

Outside of work, Ms. Stanley embraced life with passion, enthusiasm and a radiating warmth and kindness to all who knew her. She was a  member of The Jefferson Church and found joy in the simplicity and beauty of the outdoors. Whether hiking through trails, tending to her backyard oasis, or simply soaking in the serenity of nature, she cherished the world around her. A keen traveler, she loved exploring new destinations, broadening her horizons, and collecting cherished memories along the way. Mrs. Stanley also had a special talent for decorating, transforming her home into a warm and welcoming haven. She found joy in birdwatching, often spending quiet moments appreciating the vibrant colors and intricate details of God’s feathery-creations.

Melissa’s greatest joy was her kids , grandchildren and family time. 

In addition to her mother, she is survived by two daughters, Lauren Holcombe (Beau) of Maysville, GA, and Holly Stanley of Wausau, Wisconsin; two sons, James Stanley III (Kristin) of Jefferson, GA, and Adam Stanley of Flowery Branch, GA; and seven grandsons: Beckett, Maddox, Axton, Colton, Preston, Rhett, and Tripp. She is also survived by one sister, Connie Ducker, and two brothers, Glenn Carter and Eugene Carter, all of Missouri.

In accordance with Ms. Stanley’s wishes, she will be cremated, and a celebration of life service will be held 12 noon Saturday, January 18, 2025 at The Jefferson Church with Pastor Nick Dalton and Pastor Glenn Carter officiating. The family will receive friends from 11A.M. until 12 P.M. prior to the service at the church. 

In her memory take a moment to admire a bird, rearrange a room or two, and take steps in the faith as you breath in God’s beauty around you.

Evans Funeral Home, Inc., 1350 Winder Highway, Jefferson, Georgia.  706-367-5467       

Online condolences at www.evansfuneralhomeinc.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ms. Melissa Mae (Carter) Stanley, please visit our floral store.