Karen Epps Melton, 68, of Fort Mill, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 13, 2020 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 21, 1951 in Fort Mill, SC, daughter of the late Frank and Erlene Howey Epps. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Chadwick “Chad” Joseph Melton and her brother, Dave Mullis. Karen graduated from Winthrop University with a master’s degree in education. She taught second grade at Fort Mill Elementary School. She was also the owner and broker in charge of Melton Realty. She enjoyed reading and shopping and in her younger years horseback riding and competing. Karen was a member of Unity Presbyterian Church. A devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend, she will be deeply missed. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, John “Tommy” Thomas Melton; daughters, Mitzi Melton Grappone of Columbia, SC and Mary Beth Melton and fiancé, John Kendall of Greenville, SC; grandson, Brighton Kendall of Greenville, SC; and sister-in-law, Peggy Melton Sanders of Rock Hill. A Celebration of Karen’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, February 16, 2020 at Palmetto Funeral Home. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Karen’s memory to Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 993, Rock Hill, SC 29731. Online condolences may be directed to: www.palmettofh.com. Palmetto Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Fort Mill (802.802.7788) is assisting the family.