Melinda Kay Lawrence

Melinda Kay Outhier Lawrence was born on September 23, 1957, in Cherokee, Oklahoma to Raymond Theophilus and Madeline Beatrice Outhier. She passed away peacefully in her home in Salina, Oklahoma on April 23, 2025.

Melinda spent her early years working alongside her family on the harvest crew, where she developed a strong work ethic and a deep love for being together with those she loved most. She graduated from Carmen-Dacoma High School and would have celebrated her 50th year reunion in May of this year. On November 2, 1975, she married the love of her life, John Lawrence, in the United Methodist Church in Carmen. Together they built a life filled with laughter, love and enduring memories. Her greatest joy came on July 6, 1981, with the birth of her daughter, Mindy Jo Lawrence Butcher. Melinda was her daughter's biggest fan, never missing a game or event, always cheering the loudest from the sidelines. She followed Mindy's sports teams everywhere, supporting her with unwavering pride and love. 

Melinda worked at Karl's Apple Market in Fairview, Oklahoma where she was known for her kindness, warm smile and ability to brighten anyone's day. She formed meaningful friendships that lasted throughout her life. 

She is survived by her beloved daughter Mindy Jo and favorite son-in-law, Josh Butcher; four cherished grandchildren, Cori, Josh Jr and wife Micah, Hannah and husband Alex and Laura. She adored her three great-grandchildren, Noble, Kash and Kanyon.

Melinda was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Theophilus and Madeline Beatrice, her brother Doug and her sister Sondra. Her love for her family, her strong spirit and her incredible dedication will live on in all who knew her. She was truly the heart of her family. 

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 1:00pm at the Aline Christia Church, with burial to follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery southwest of Aline. Memorials can be given to Pleasant Ridge Cemetery for perpetual care, Wounded Warriors or Cancer Researc in care of the Aline Christian Church, P.O. Box 77, Aline, Oklahoma 73716.