Melody Kay Burkhead

Melody Kay Burkhead

Ottumwa

Melody Kay Burkhead, daughter of George Seals and Retha Seals, was born December 3, 1951 in Redfield, South Dakota. She was a proud mother of five children and loving grandmother of eight grandchildren. She passed from this life on November 18, 2022 at the age of 70 in Iowa City.

Known to family and friends as “Mama Mel,” Melody was best known for her witty sense of humor and unconditional love for animals of all kinds. She had a passion for adventure that led her all over the country. In her early years, she was often found communing with nature in the forms of gardening, fishing, camping, and bird watching. Later in life, Melody developed a love for sewing, and she used her talent to make special gifts for her grandkids.

Above all else, Melody will be remembered for the love she gave her family, her fighting spirit, and an unwavering faith in God.

Melody was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Gerald Dean Burkhead Jr.; sons, Micheal A. Burkhead and Matthew S. Burkhead; parents George Seals and Retha Seals; sister, Shelia Seals.

She is survived by her children, Jim (Chris) Burkhead, Patty (Tim) Elliott and John (Peggy) Burkhead; daughter-in-law, Tina Burkhead; sister, Lori Peercy; brother, Jerry Seals; and her grandchildren.

Services will be held at Kale Funeral Home in Osceola, Monday, December 5, 2022 at 1:00 pm with Parnell Davis officiating.

The family will greet friends from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm Monday, December 5, 2022 at Kale Funeral Home.

A live stream of the service will be available at www.kalefuneralhome.com on Melody's tribute wall beginning at 1:00 pm Monday.

Interment will be in the New Virginia Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Kiya Kota Animal Shelter.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.kalefuneralhome.com.