Melynda Margaret Griggs-Waldenga Obituary (1963 - 2021)

Melynda Margaret Griggs-Waldenga passed away unexpectedly from heart failure on May 14, 2021, at the age of 57 at Fair Oaks Hospital in Fairfax, Virginia. Melynda was born to James Leslie and Sarah Frances Griggs on July 2, 1963, in an Army hospital in Berlin Germany, and led the "military brat" life, living in many places during her youth finally settling in the Northern Virginia area which she called home until her passing. Starting her work career with Continental Airlines, she later returned to school, completed her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology at George Mason University, and achieved a Master's Degree in Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. After graduation, she returned to Fairfax County working in Family Services for the betterment of the community. Those who knew Mel well know her laugh was contagious. She often enjoyed a quiet evening at home watching Nationals baseball or Washington football, streaming movies, or playing the piano. The occasional trip to the ocean helped to recharge her batteries. She was fully devoted to her 14-year-old daughter Emily who was her first thought in the morning, and the last one before bed. Melynda is survived by Dave Waldenga; former husband, Emily Waldenga; daughter, Jim and Mary Griggs; brother and sister-in-law, Fred and Annie Griggs; half-brother and sister, and several other extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Sarah, and sister Charlotte Anne Griggs. A celebration of life will be held this Summer at a location and date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Meals on Wheels on her behalf.