In Loving
Memory

Melanie Lenora Buffington

Sept. 14, 1973 – Sept. 16, 2020

Dr. Melanie Lenora Buffington, 47, of Richmond passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2020, at her home. She was Associate Professor and Interim Chair of the Art Education Department at VCU. A distinguished scholar and passionate advocate for the arts and justice, Melanie was recognized by the National Art Education Association as 2015’s National Higher Education Teacher of the Year. She also received the Marantz Distinguished Alumni Award from The Ohio State University in 2019. Melanie earned her Ph.D. and M.A. in Art Education from Ohio State and her B.S. in Art Education at Penn State.

She is survived by her parents Dennis and Anna Carol Buffington, sister Kristin and brother-in-law Darryl, niece Margaret, and nephew Daniel.

Melanie had many skills and gifts that she readily shared with others. She was a prolific baker who spoiled her friends with homemade goodies, a talented knitter who crafted amazing sweaters, and a superb gardener who loved to grow and enjoy flowers. She always had a card, a meal, and a hug for a friend, neighbor, family member, or colleague in need.

Melanie loved the city of Richmond and its people. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to one of her favorite Richmond charities.

Neighborhood Resource Center, 1519 Williamsburg Rd, Richmond VA 23231

Feed More, 1415 Rhoadmiller St, Richmond VA 23220

The Carver Promise Mentoring Program, 2922 W Marshall St, Suite 2, Richmond VA 23230

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