Melinda Reynard-Lindsay

Melinda Reynard-Lindsay was born on February 3, 1956, to Keith Joy Reynard and Bella Castor-Reynard at a naval base in Charleston, South Carolina. From the very beginning, Melinda brought color, joy, and warmth into the world—a theme that would define her life for the next several decades. A 1974 graduate of Hickman Mills High School, Melinda carried with her a vibrant, magnetic spirit. She was the life of every party, the spark at every family gathering, and the reason laughter echoed long after everyone had gone home. Her energy was contagious, her presence unforgettable. To know Melinda was to love her—and to laugh with her. A devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Melinda centered her life around the people she loved. Her faith anchored her through every season, and she approached life with a deep compassion, unwavering strength, and genuine kindness. Melinda was endlessly creative. A gifted artist, she had the most elegant handwriting, a beautiful singing voice, and an eye for beauty in the everyday. Whether she was scrapbooking with loved ones, crafting masterpieces from the unexpected, or capturing life’s fleeting moments through her lens as an avid photographer, Melinda celebrated the details that others often overlooked. She documented not just her own journey, but those of her family and friends, preserving memories with care and intention. Melinda was a major sports enthusiast, and fantasy football winner for many years. Melinda also believed deeply in the power of education. A lifelong learner, she earned an associate’s degree in art, a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, and a master’s degree in business management. She was also a certified drug and alcohol counselor. Her career was as diverse and meaningful as the life she led. Over the years, she served as a police dispatcher, reserve police officer, firefighter, juvenile intake officer, and probation officer. The last 15 years of her career she dedicated herself to working for the State of Kansas before retiring in May of 2021. Over all the years Melinda worked, she wore many hats and touched countless lives along the way. Leaving a mark that will not soon be forgotten. Above all, Melinda valued relationships. She was fiercely family-oriented and poured her love into every role she held. Her greatest pride was in her children and grandchildren, who carry forward her legacy of love, creativity, and strength. Melinda is survived by her beloved husband, Steven Lindsay of Topeka; her children, Nicholas Stewart of Topeka, Loni Stewart-Hiszczynskyj (Greg) of Topeka, and Levi Lindsay of Riverside MO; her cherished grandchildren, Nick Stewart II, Noah Hiszczynskyj , Layden Stewart, Jonah Hiszczynskyj, Hannah Hiszczynskj; and Baya Hiszczynskyj. Melinda is also survived by her sisters and brother, Karen Whitesell and Becca Reynard-Boster, Catherine Cox and William McCloud; and a host of extended family and dear friends. Melinda wore many titles in her life—artist, counselor, officer, friend—but perhaps none more fitting than light-bringer. Her joy, humor, and heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Visitation will be at 1 p.m. with memorial service to follow at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Memorial contributions may be made to Leukemia Society, in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online at www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Melinda Reynard-Lindsay

February 3, 1956 - July 9, 2025