Melanie J. Pomeroy, 67 of Front Royal, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at her home.
A graveside will be held on Monday, April 20 at 1:00 p.m. in Panorama Memorial Gardens with Sammy Campbell officiating. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.
Melanie was born June 21, 1958 in Winchester, Virginia to the late Jesse Berkeley and Catherine Christine Lindquist Pomeroy.
Surviving is a sister, Hope Pomeroy Smithwick and husband Sam of Salem, Virginia; one grandson, Jalen Ritenour; great-granddaughter, River; several nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
Melanie received her bachelor’s degree from Mary Baldwin and her master’s degree from George Mason University. She traveled extensively to 20 countries around the world. She was the first woman on the east coast to receive a black belt in Shōrin-ryū.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and a son, Jeremy Ritenour.
Honorary pallbearers will be Dallas Campbell, Rick Walker, Dave Reagen, Chad Barnett, Jason Ruby and Arthur Drago.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Warren County, 1245 Progress Drive, Front Royal, Virginia 22630.
Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
My sincere condolences to Melanie ‘s family
.she was such a beautiful, sweet person. She was a special friend to me.
Thank you very much.
Thank you so much.
I remember very well when Melanie was born. Her parents were so surprised and happy. Melanie was a sweetheart, and I and all the Barnetts were very fond of her.
George Barnett
Thank you, George.
I am so very sorry. My prayers and love are with you now and in the weeks ahead as you try to navigate your life without her.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family, the world will definitely be a sadder place.