It is with deep sorrow and immeasurable love that we announce the passing of our dear Melanie Dominique Strong. She left this world too soon at the age of 40. She was born on July 7, 1985, in Williamsburg, Virginia, to the late Lisa Strong and Maurice Ho-Sang.
She was raised with a spirit full of warmth, generosity, and quiet strength. Melanie touched every life she encountered with her kindness and unwavering compassion. On November 18, 2025, Melanie peacefully went to her eternal home, surrounded by her family.
“Diamond” or “Mel,” as she was affectionately called, was known for her gentle heart, her ability to make others feel seen, and the deep love she held for her family. At a young age she accepted Christ as her savior and joined Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. Diamond served in many ministries and loved her church family. She was a proud graduate of Lafayette High School Class of ’03 and later graduated from ECPI, majoring in accounting.
She loved to cook and travel to see her family. Most of all, Melanie was a devoted mother to her two children. If you listen closely, you may hear her call their names from Heaven. Her laughter, resilience, and caring nature created a lasting impact that will continue to live on in the memories of those she leaves behind.
Though her time with us was far too short, the legacy Melanie leaves is one of love, empathy, and light. Diamond will live on through her organ donations and will be remembered as our hero, the strength she carried with grace, and the beautiful life she built through kindness and connection.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lisa Strong and Maurice Ho-Sang; aunt Bridgette Byrd; and uncle Rickey Strong, Sr.
Melanie’s legacy will live on through her children, Genesis Crump and Gary Crump, Jr.; sisters, Taneisha Strong and Monique Ho-Sang; brother Malique Ho-sang; aunts, Lori Hubbs (Shane) and Gwen Bowie; uncle Stevie Freeman; niece Tan’Zir Strong; goddaughter SaTia Jones; special cousins, George and Sharon Walker; and a host of other loving cousins and friends.
