Rachell "Melinda" Goldman, 74, of Midland, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home on October 19, 2026.

Melinda was born on February 13, 1952, at Fort Benning, Georgia, to the late Colonel Marcus Coyle and Myra Coyle. She grew up in Columbus, Georgia, and developed an early passion for travel and exploring the world, which led her to become a flight attendant with Delta Air Lines. She later pursued a career in nursing, dedicating herself to caring for others. A lifelong learner with an inquisitive mind, Melinda continued her studies at Columbus State University and received a degree in Communications.

In 1984, Melinda married the love of her life, Dr. Kenneth L. "Ken" Goldman. Together, they built a life filled with love, warmth, and laughter. A devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother, Melinda treasured her family and the time they spent together.

Beyond her family, Melinda had a special affection for dogs and a generous spirit that found expression through her volunteer work and involvement in the Columbus community. She gave freely of her time and energy to the people and causes that mattered to her.

Melinda will be remembered for her love of family, her curiosity about the world, and the warmth she brought to the lives of those who knew her. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Ken, of 42 years, her 6 children, 8 grandchildren; and her brothers, Marcus Coyle, III. (Mary) and Patrick Coyle (Winnie).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Colonel Marcus and Myra Coyle, and her brother, Jason “Roddy” Coyle.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Melinda's memory to the Ken and Melinda Goldman Music Scholarship Endowment at the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University.