Belinda Eve Bray Anderson

Belinda Eve Bray Anderson, a beloved mother, wife, and educator, passed away peacefully at home in Columbus, Georgia, on June 7, 2025, at the age of 66. Surrounded by her loving husband, Tom, her daughter, Melissa, and son-in-law, Clay, Belinda left this world after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on August 15, 1958, in Macon, Georgia, Belinda moved to Columbus in 1965, where she would spend most of her life. From an early age, she displayed a natural talent for teaching, starting with her siblings who formed her first class of eager learners. After graduating from high school in Columbus, she continued her education at Columbus College, earning a bachelor's degree in Business Administration in 1982. Shortly thereafter, she married and became a proud mother to her daughter, Melissa, in 1984.

Belinda often remarked that her greatest achievement was being a mother. She devoted herself to Melissa's upbringing, creating enriching experiences that included weekly trips to the museum, library visits, swim lessons at the YMCA, and being the room mom at Double Churches Elementary. Her commitment to nurturing and supporting her daughter included preparing homemade meals nearly every night and instilling core values that Melissa cherishes to this day. She also taught at Meadows Business College and earned a second bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. During a challenging period when Melissa required wheelchair assistance, Belinda transitioned from teaching to fully advocate for her daughter's needs, ensuring she received the best medical care and a nurturing educational environment.

With a dedicated teaching career spanning two decades in the Muscogee County School District (MCSD), Belinda was recognized for her excellence in education when she was named Teacher of the Year in 2003. She furthered her education with a master’s degree in Human Resources Management and a specialist’s degree in Education, embodying the principle of lifelong learning. She even contributed beyond the classroom as an HR Coordinator for all teachers in the district, leaving a lasting impact on her students and colleagues alike. Belinda retired from MCSD in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication.

In addition to her professional achievements, Belinda was known for her love of hosting gatherings and celebrating holidays, earning her the affectionate title of "the hostess with the mostest." She embraced the arts, sharing season tickets to performances at the Springer Opera House and the River Center with her daughter. A talented photographer, she shared her passion by capturing beautiful moments and contributed her photos to WTVM's Weather Team and the Columbus Photopia Camera Club. Her thoughtfulness extended to family and friends, as she was known for sending cards and preparing casseroles during difficult times.

Belinda married the love of her life, Tom Anderson, in 2012, and together they enjoyed a beautiful partnership filled with travel and adventure. Whether exploring Las Vegas, Hilton Head, Washington, D.C., or Savannah, Belinda was the planner, creating detailed itineraries that maximized their experiences. Planning each trip meticulously, she ensured that every journey was memorable.

Her love for life remained strong even after her diagnosis of recurrent metastatic cancer in June 2020. Defying the odds, she thrived for five years, grasping every opportunity to travel, support her community, and enjoy life to the fullest, from Southern California to New England. She was a devoted supporter of Columbus State University and a loyal fan of the Braves, all while enjoying exhilarating drives in her red convertible Porsche.

Belinda held her faith close to her heart, looking forward to reuniting in heaven with her grandmother, Minnie Alice Harper Wade, and her father, Franklin Bray.

Belinda is survived by her husband, Sergeant First Class Tom Anderson, U.S. Army Retired, of Columbus, Georgia; her daughter Melissa Ingle Hammer and son-in-law Major Clayton Hammer of Fortson, Georgia; her mother Elizabeth Piland of Columbus, Georgia; her brother Chris Bray and sister-in-law Julie of Upatoi, Georgia; her sister Lisa and brother-in-law David Bennett of Columbus, Georgia; her niece Jessica French and her husband Brantley of Columbus, Georgia; her nephews Andrew and Clayton Bray of Columbus, Georgia; her great nieces Elizabeth Rose and Charlotte Rose French of Columbus, Georgia; as well as her brothers and sisters-in-law Bo and Carolyn Anderson of Phenix City, Alabama, Becky and Johnny Bowens of Midland, Georgia, and Lloyd and Sharon Anderson of Smiths Station, Alabama.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Glenn Fussell, her lifelong physician, and her oncologists, Drs. Susan Modesitt and Greg Sfakianos, for their unwavering care and support throughout her journey, as well as to Columbus Hospice and Nurse Olivia for their compassionate assistance during her final days.

Belinda will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family and her indomitable spirit that touched so many lives.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at CityScape Church with Pastor Jonathan Moore officiating. Lunch will be served in the Fellowship Hall following the service. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 PM on Friday, June 13, 2025, at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory. A committal service will be held at 12:30 PM EST on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery.

"Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord." 2 Corinthians 5:8