Urgent fundraising appeal for the family of Melinda Jolly, mother of 4 killed in Cobb

The family of Melinda Jolly, a beloved mother of four, tragically killed last week in her Marietta home is facing the daunting task of providing for Melinda’s four children, who will now be under the care of her brother, Tommy Jolly, and his wife Stacey.

The Jolly family, already managing five children of their own, has taken on this responsibility with love and dedication.

To support Melinda’s children and their new caregivers, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up by Melinda’s sister, Kathleen Jolly. The fundraiser has raised over $37,000, with a goal to reach $50,000 or more. Funds raised will assist in providing the necessary financial support for the upbringing and well-being of Melinda’s children in their new living arrangements.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will go a long way in providing stability and a brighter future for Melinda’s children under the care of Tommy and Stacey Jolly, who are also caring for their own five children. Kindness and generosity from the public will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Melinda’s children and their new caretakers.

After the passing of her husband, Dirk Van Donselaar, in 2019 due to cancer. Melinda Jolly moved to Georgia with her four children. Melinda was pregnant with twin boys at the time of Dirk’s diagnosis and faced immense challenges but remained resilient. She gave birth to the twins shortly before Dirk’s passing. She and her husband had an older daughter. In addition, she had a son from a previous marriage who is now an adult.

Unfortunately, Melinda’s life took a tragic turn after moving to Georgia as she found herself in an abusive relationship. Her family, residing in California, learned of her situation and had been actively seeking help from the Cobb Police Department, requesting welfare checks at her home on Perch Drive. Despite their efforts, Melinda’s life was cut short, and she was found dead by a cousin earlier this month. 

Melinda’s boyfriend, Charles Cook, who resided in Marietta, was arrested in Florida and accused of her murder. Cook, 41, had previously faced charges of second-degree cruelty to children related to an incident in October with Melinda’s four-year-old twins.

Melinda is remembered by her sister Pamela Jolly as a kind and compassionate woman with a bright future ahead of her. She had a profound love for her children, a passion for animals, an appreciation for French music, and a reputation as the fastest runner.

Melinda’s family is asking for the help of the public during this challenging time. To make a donation and learn more about Melinda, visit the official GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-melinda-jolly