Melanie Thompson Popper

Melanie Popper was born on April 16, 1943, in the southern city of Atlanta, Georgia. She passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026 in Ft Lauderdale, FL surrounded by her children. She was the beloved daughter of Lang and Millicent Thompson and older sister to Carol and Lang Jr. Her father, Lang, past away when Melanie was a teenager. She had two loving step-fathers during her life. Joesph Gorman and Robert A. Steele. Both of these men, especially Robert A Steele treated her like their own child. Melanie's life was rich with family, friends, public service and charity. After attending Stephen's College in Missouri for two years, she married her 8th grade sweetheart, David F. Popper, together they raised two children in the suburb over Glenview, outside Chicago, IL. Melanie was a stay at home Mom that loved to play tennis and volunteer with various organizations in the Chicago land area. In the late 80's David and Melanie divorced and that was when Melanie's professional career took off. She built a successful career in Sports Marketing, where she worked with All-Star athletes. One her favorite memories is working with NFL legend Walter Payton, organizing his Celebrity Golf Tournaments and his Hall of Fame induction. Other sporting events that Melanie was involved in, included organizing the US Sailing team for the America's Cup, Sailboat Race in England, the Volvo Tennis Tournament in Chicago and the charity Athletes Against Drugs where she worked with Stedman Graham. Her talents extended beyond sports where Melanie served as a White House Communications Officer under President George W. Bush While there she worked closely with the Secret Service and assisted with travel and public relations. Later, Melanie became the Director of Development at Nova Southeastern University and was extremely involved with the NOVA Gold Circle, Scholarship program founded by her Mother, Millicent Steele. Her professional accomplishments left an indelible mark on all those she encountered, characterized by her passion and commitment to excellence. Melanie's charitable contributions are many. She was heavily involved with the National Prevention of Child Abuse, Broward Center for Performing Arts, Symphony of the Americas, Coral Ridge Yacht Club and with Ft Lauderdale Church-by-the-Sea. Her contributions to these causes reflected her deep-rooted compassion and dedication to making the world a better place. Melanie's zest for life was evident in her hobbies. She was an avid traveler and cruiser, always eager to explore new horizons. Her love for history, cooking, reading, music, attending the symphony and performing arts added a harmonious melody to her life, enriching her spirit and those around her. Melanie was predeceased by her mother, father, two step-fathers, brother and sister, whose memories she cherished dearly. She is survived by her 2 adult children, nine grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, 3 nieces and 2 nephews, who were her pride and joy. She will always be remembered by her big smile, vibrant energy, generosity to anyone she encountered, the colorful flowers she always wore on her blouse and her always fashionable glasses. Her legacy of love and resilience continues to inspire all who knew her. In honoring Melanie's life, contributions can be made to the following organizations in her name. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Gary Sinise Foundation