Melanee Fitzgerald, affectionately known as Suzanne, passed away on June 8, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was 81 years old and succumbed to complications related to dementia.

Suzanne was born in Lansing, Michigan, on October 28, 1943, to Ralph and Cupadine Rix. She is survived by her two children, Douglas Stuart Fitzgerald and his wife, Michelle, of Pace, FL, and Sybelle Fitzgerald of Newnan, GA. Additionally, she leaves behind Dolores Rhoades, wife of Jack T. Rhoades of Paxton, FL, her cousin Jay Rhoades and his wife, Tracey, of Defuniak Springs, FL, and her cousin Tara Rhoades of Laurel Hill, FL.

Suzanne's story began in high school when she met her husband, Douglas. They shared a love for horseback riding, often enjoying rides together on Suzanne's horse, Blaze. They married in Woodland Hills, California, and embarked on a life filled with adventure. Together, they owned and operated a ski lodge in June Lake, California. Suzanne cherished memories of baking pies for lodge residents and working in the restaurant. She was often seen walking their two German shepherds, Duke and Geronimo, which were rumored to be part wolf. Eventually, they sold the lodge and returned to Southern California, where they spent eight wonderful years raising their children, riding their horse, and savoring the beauty of the west coast.

Later, the family relocated to Genoa, Nevada—the oldest town in the state. There, they embraced the rugged lifestyle of the west, including horseback riding in the Sierra Nevada mountains, raising chickens, hiking with their dogs, and tending to their garden. Suzanne's love for the mountains remained steadfast.

However, destiny called them to Cupadine's birthplace: Florala, Alabama. Suzanne, Cupadine, and Sybelle moved there to be close to family, particularly her aunt and uncle, Jack and Dolores Rhoades.

Suzanne's legacy lives on through her family, her adventures, and the love she shared with those around her. May she rest in peace

Graveside services for Melanne Suzanne Fitzgerald will be 10:30AM Saturday June 15, 2024 at Greenwood Cemetery in Florala.

Please join us in remembering Melanee Suzanne Fitzgerald by visiting our Memorial at evansfuneralhomeal.com. Through this site we invite you to share your thoughts and fond memories with our family.