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Melody Lynn Draper, 69, of Meeker, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. She was born on March 2, 1956, in Dayton, Ohio, to James Rothaar and Geraldine McQueen Rothaar. Melody spent her early years in Huber Heights, Ohio, before making her home in Meeker, where she lived surrounded by the wildlife and open skies she loved so dearly.
On December 4, 1976, Melody married the love of her life, Alfred “Chip” Draper. For 49 beautiful years, they shared a life built on love, laughter, and a deep respect for the natural world. Chip often said that one of the most important lessons Melody taught him was to respect and protect nature—wildlife and domestic animals alike.
Melody believed she was placed on this earth to care for animals, and she lived that calling every day. A perfect day for her was a sunny one, spent watching deer, squirrels, and wild turkeys—laughing at their silly antics and marveling at their presence. Her heart was fullest when she was outdoors, surrounded by the creatures she cherished.
She had a lifelong love of horses and achieved the distinction of being a dressage exhibitor and trainer, accomplishments that reflected her patience, dedication, and gentle way with animals. Melody wanted to be remembered for her protection of animals, great and small, and for the compassion she showed to every living being.
Melody loved her family and was so proud of all her children and grandchildren. She also had a deep love for the Lord. She was a catholic and spent time playing the organ and running the church music program in her younger days.
Melody was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Alfred “Chip” Draper; her children, Nathaniel Draper and wife Amy Robison Draper of Edmond, Oklahoma, and Zachary Draper of Stillwater, Oklahoma; her brother, Michael Rothaar of Florida; and her beloved grandchildren, Catherine Draper, Christian Draper, and Katelin Johnson. She is also survived by her cherished fur family—11 cats, 2 dogs, and her horses—each one deeply loved and cared for.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Douglas Rothaar; her father, James Rothaar; and her mother, Geraldine Rothaar.
Melody’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the animals she protected, and the love she poured into her family. Her gentle soul, joyful laughter, and unwavering compassion will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Memorial donations may be made in Melody’s honor to WildCare of Noble, Oklahoma, and Blaze’s Tribute Equine Rescue of Harrah, Oklahoma, organizations that reflect her lifelong mission of caring for animals.
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