Melinda Rae Blood, 58, of Holliston, passed away at her home on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Born in Worcester, she was the daughter of Donald Blood of Holliston and the late Geneva (McCleod) Blood.

She is survived by her two daughters, Kimberly Leco of Massachusetts, and Shannon Daly of Ohio, two siblings Monty Smith of North Carolina, and Wayne Blood of New Mexico, son-in-law Anthony Leco of Pennsylvania, as well as her former husband and friend, Peter Daly of Holliston. Predeceased is her sister Menina Little of North Carolina.

Melinda found joy in composing and performing music for others. Her skills earned her a seat in the local orchestra, as well as her being a key member to her jazz ensembles. A natural musician, she could play any instrument. Some of her favorites were the piano, flute, banjo, and trombone.

She enjoyed group activities, often organizing and bringing together members of her community to partake in games and events. Her love language was gift giving; she would rarely let you leave her presence without taking some sort of knick-knack or pre-planned offering that she had picked out for you.

Melinda volunteered at the American Red Cross for many years, helping people during crisis and strife. She was a long-time member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, receiving callings, and making sure that the church ward’s missionaries were well-fed. She was also a dedicated Girl Scout leader, acting as counselor, guide, and camp instructor to her troop.

People are invited to gather on Saturday, June 10th from 10:30-11:00 a.m. at Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854 Washington St. A funeral home service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Donations in memory may be made to the Milford Humane Society at www.milfordhumane.org