February 18, 2021, 91, Goldsboro –

Melda Lea Batten Lamm, 91, was ushered into eternity by her Savior on Thursday, February 18, 2021.

Melda was born in Wilson County on November 21, 1929 to the late Walter Green Batten and Carrie Lee Lamm Batten. She graduated from Lucama High School in June 1947 and from Carolina General School of Nursing, Wilson NC as a Registered Nurse. Melda retired from the North Carolina Department of Mental Health, Cherry Hospital after 31 years of service.

Her warmth, generosity and kind spirit were well known and cherished by those she encountered throughout her life. Melda was an active member of Madison Avenue Baptist Church where she served as nursery director for many years as well as on many other committees. She enjoyed her Sunday School class and often spoke of the many friends that she enjoyed each Sunday as long as her health permitted. Even in her declining health, she found joy in simple pleasures like visits from family and friends.

Melda’s faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was her anchor. Her sincere smile, enthusiastic love of life, and concern for all people endeared her to those she met.

Most importantly to Melda was her family. Melda was preceded in death on May 5, 2020, by her husband of almost 70 years, William Silas “Bill” Lamm. She supported her husband in many of his business, civic and charitable activities. Melda will be sorely missed here on earth, but we take solace in the fact that she has now rejoined the love of her life.

Melda will lie in state at Seymour Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. A service to celebrate Melda’s life will be held by the graveside on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. in Wayne Memorial Park, 2925 U.S. Hwy. 117 South, Dudley, NC. Attendees are asked to wear a face covering and practice social distancing.

Melda is survived by numerous nieces and nephews that she loved very much and her sister-in-law, Elgie Lamm of Wilson.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Bessie Batten Edgerton and husband Vernon, Celia Batten Littleton and husband Thomas, Mae Batten Pittman and husband James; and three brothers, Benny Batten and wife Blanche, Silas Batten and wife Alma, and James Robert Batten and wife Ila.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to everyone who sent cards, made phone calls and kept in touch during her last months. The many kindnesses kept her spirits up and brightened her days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Melda’s memory to Madison Avenue Baptist Church Building Fund, 300 S. Madison Avenue, Goldsboro, NC 27530.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.