Melanie Villafana

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Melanie Berendt Villafana, a beloved wife, mother, sister, niece, and friend. Melanie passed away peacefully on Sunday June 22nd, 2025, at the age of 45.

Born on Sunday October 21, 1979, in Manassas, Virginia, Melanie was the cherished daughter of the late Raymond Berendt Jr. and Marilyn Jean Woodhull.

After graduating high school Melanie attended college to follow her passion of music and become a teacher to share that love. She soon learned that it was not the path truly calling her. She dropped out of college and went to trade school where she became a dog trainer specializing in basic obedience and agility. This fostered her love for animals that grew to owning many dogs, some fish, some turtles, and rescuing street cats that were to show up to her house, but even that wasn’t enough for her. She dreamed of having a farm and was determined to have it. She moved her small family out to Washington, Ga on a small plot of land and a house. She began learning about chickens and began breeding and collecting rare breeds. She soon learned more on her holistic journey and wanted to be more health conscious always spreading her knowledge to others along the way. Eventually, she was diagnosed with stage four bile duct cancer. She went through relentless chemo, radiation, and various treatments. The treatments took a serious toll on her physical wellbeing, but she continued to attend the local farmers market any chance she could get; Always finding ways to reach out to the community. Even when she began to lose some strength, she found ways to help others and made a community ranging all over the country. Her mindfulness, generosity, and heart will be what she is most remembered for.

Melanie is survived by her devoted husband, Rafael Villafana Jr., and their beloved daughter, Jazlyn Jean Villafana. She is also survived by her brother, Michael Berndt, and her Uncle George Woodhull. Melanie’s warmth, kindness, and dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Melanie’s legacy of love, community, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew her.

She will be remembered for her generous spirit, her commitment to her family, and her unwavering dedication to her community.

Hopkins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Melanie Berendt Villafana.