Melinda Denise (Van Vlake) Judy

Melinda Denise Van Vlake Judy, 58, partner of Scott Bandel, passed away on September 14th, 2026 at Grand Strand Medical Center. 

Born on February 23, 1968 in Georgetown, SC, she was a daughter of Ollie Richard Van Vlake and the late Karen Lou Van Vlake. 

Denise loved God and led each day of her life with extraordinary love and compassion. To know her was to be loved by her, generously and without condition. She was the kind of person who would give anything she had to someone who needed it.

Denise’s greatest gift was the way she saw people. She looked for the good in everyone, even when it was difficult to find, and she believed deeply in forgiveness, second chances, and grace. Her heart always seemed to have room for one more person and one more act of kindness. She gave without keeping score, forgave without holding grudges, and loved people not only when it was easy, but when they needed love most.

Denise was preceded in death by her brother, Eric Van Vlake and daughter, Angel Whalen. Survivors include her partner; two children, Megan Judy and Erica Endicott; two honorary children, Brandon Bandel and Justin Bandel; six grandchildren, Gabriel, Layla, Grayson, Wyatt, Evelyn, and Lincoln; two sisters, Lisa Rowe of Myrtle Beach and Allison Van Vlake of Georgetown; and a number of nieces and nephews. 

The family will receive friends and loved ones at Denise’s home from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 19th. 

At 3:00 p.m., we will gather for a prayer and a few words in remembrance of Denise. Following this, anyone who wishes will be invited to share a favorite memory, story, or reflection as we celebrate her life together.

Friends and loved ones are welcome to visit at any time between 2:00 and 6:00 p.m. to spend time with the family and remember Denise.

Food and refreshments will be shared throughout the afternoon. For those who have asked how they can help, anyone who would like to bring a favorite side dish or dessert to share is warmly welcome to do so, though certainly not expected.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melinda Denise (Van Vlake) Judy, please visit our floral store.