Melanie Kay (Biesbrock) Haywood, age 66, died Wednesday, Oct. 5, in her home in Wayland.

She worked many jobs over the years, including Wayland Union Schools, United Bank of Michigan, Byron Center Bank and Bruce Sexton DDS. She loved to sew, making her “grammie jammies” for her grandchildren. She loved many animals, including her beloved pets.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Duane; children Nicole (Karl) Timmer, Meredith (Steve) Hemmeke, and April (Andy) Taylor; grandchildren Megan Fowler, Kati (fiancé Ben Fought) and Nathan Timmer, Luke, Caleb, and Joshua Hemmeke, Olivia and Emilee Taylor; mother, Leone Biesbrock; siblings Vicki (Dan) Pease, W. Mike (Kelli) Biesbrock, Dave (Raven) Biesbrock, and Patty (Doug) Hale; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was born Jan. 15, 1956, to William and Leone Biesbrock in Grand Rapids.

She was preceded in death by her father William; brothers Robert and Dale; and “bonus” dad, Lewis Huisman.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11, at Leighton Church, 4180 2nd St., Caledonia. The family will receive relatives and friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, October 10, 2022 at Leighton Church and also one hour prior the memorial service Tuesday.

In honor of Melanie, memorial contributions may be made to Alpha Grand Rapids (1725 Division Ave. S., Grand Rapids, MI 49507) or Western Michigan Teen Challenge (440 E. Pontaluna Rd., Muskegon, MI 49444).