Melinda Toliver

At 67 years old, Melinda Toliver finally took her last ride after 21 years of truck driving, several decades of unmatched stubbornness, and a lifelong dedication to putting dogs, horses, and alcohol slightly—okay, dramatically—above most human relationships.

She is survived by one child, after having placed both children for adoption many years ago. One sadly preceded her in death. Family dynamics were complicated, but if there’s one thing everyone could agree on, it’s that her dogs and horses never had to wonder where they stood in the pecking order.

A woman of unwavering opinions, Melinda treated compromise like a contagious disease and could hold a grudge longer than most people hold mortgages. She rarely asked for advice, mostly because she had already decided she was right before the question was finished.

Friendships were not exactly overflowing. Some say she kept her circle small; others say the dogs were the circle. Truthfully, she preferred creatures that didn’t argue with her and drinks that didn’t judge her.

She spent 21 years driving trucks, proving she was happiest either on the road, around animals, or somewhere with a cold drink in hand. She lived life exactly how she wanted—whether it made sense to anyone else or not—and absolutely nobody could accuse her of being fake.

Melinda is survived by:

Daughter - Rebecca Wilson (Justin)

Brothers - William Lance Toliver (Barb) and Jeffery Gene Toliver (Mary)

Grandchldren - Dylan Porter, Tanner Dalton, Bryce Dalton, Christian Breedlove, Julieann Breedlove, Samuel Wilson, Jacob Wilson, and Urijah Wilson.

Several Nieces and Nephews

There will be no funeral because, frankly, she probably wouldn’t have wanted people standing around pretending to be emotional for three hours. Instead, there will be a short graveside service to respectfully get her in the ground and keep things moving—efficient, simple, and with minimal small talk.

Cremation was chosen and a Graveside Ceremony will be held Friday, July 24th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Ames Chapel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, pet your dog, feed your horse, pour yourself a drink, and remember: life is short, stubbornness is forever, and somebody always ends up arguing with the cemetery staff.”