Melody Bonita Jackson

Melody Bonita Jackson, age 71, of Conyers, Georgia, passed peacefully from this life on Monday, January 19, 2026. She touched the lives of so many as a mom, “Mima,” sister, sister-in-law, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend. Melody’s bright spirit, infectious smile, and caring heart made a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to know her.

Born on February 2, 1954, in Dayton, Ohio, Melody was a devoted mother to her daughter, Tonyette Jordan (and son-in-law Courtney), and she dedicated her life to family, God, and public service.

She graduated from Colonel White High School, earned an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Liberal Arts from Sinclair Community College, and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice from the University of Dayton. Melody also received a Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) degree from Capital Law School and served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves.

Her education paved the way for a remarkable 30-year Federal career, starting with the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and culminating as a Special-Agent-in-Charge at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of the Inspector General (OIG). After retiring, she continued her service as a Senior Police Advisor for the Department of State (DOS), Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

Melody broke barriers and achieved several milestones throughout her career: she was the first Black female Security Manager at Northside Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia; the first Black female Special Agent promoted to INS Headquarters; the first Black person to serve as National Program Manager in International Affairs; and she established the International Affairs mission for the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), serving as Special Assistant to the President of NOBLE. She also created the DOS/INL police program to train foreign law enforcement officers.

Outside of work, Melody loved salsa dancing, reading, writing, and traveling—she truly embraced life and learning.

She is survived by her daughter, grandchildren (Chance, Tanasia, Cortez, and Camryn Jordan), sister-in-law Sonovia Jackson, Uncle David Few and Aunt Penny Few, nieces and nephews (Sharelle Cross [Dustin], Shardae Jackson, Mark Jackson, Jr., and LaMicah White), and many great-nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Melody was preceded in death by her father, Robert Few, mother, Lulu Jackson, and brother, Mark Jackson.

Melody’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and breaking barriers. Her passing leaves an enormous hole in the hearts of those who love her, but her spirit of love, service, and faith—and her drive to open doors for others— will carry on in the many lives she touched.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 10-11am at the Newcomer North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Rd., Dayton, Ohio 45424. The service will follow at 11am, with Pastor William E. Harris, Jr. officiating. Melody will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery in Dayton.