Melba Ann (Wisener) Stripling

It is with great sadness, and a heavy heart that the family of Melba Ann Stripling announce her passing.  After battling a chronic illness in which she gave the good fight Melba was received by the Lord on May 7th, 2020, at the age of 75 years. Melba was born in Nacogdoches, TX on January 2, 1945, and raised in Lumberton, TX.

Melba will be lovingly remembered by her nine children: Thomas Cates Harkey, Jessica Gilliam, Jeff Bodle, Ava Sherman, Jennifer McManus, Hazel Key, Ollie Spurr, Holly Blackmon, and Sara Stripling.  Her sisters, Evelyn Revere and Elizabeth Arriola. Along with numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Melba is proceeded in death by her adoring husband, Charles Larry Stripling, parents; Hubert and Hazel Wisener and grandsons, Jaylin Brewer “Fritter” and Johnathan Alexander. 

Melba graduated from Silsbee High School and continued her education at Beauty School where she graduated with honors and placed 1st with Trophies for best Stylist! We could expect nothing less of her as she was an echelon in all that she touched. To continue her love of being a stylist, her father had created her a shop in the garage for her business, in which she thrived!

Later, she moved to Nacogdoches where she worked at “Community Action” and directed the Women’s Shelter. She loved cooking and there was never a meal that did not deserve true praise by all! Shehad a garden every year, and she loved to till, prune and bring in the best tomatoes to jar and share. She would love to eat a tomato and onion… some cabbage and peas, it was all she needed and loved every bit of it and we all benefited from the fruits of  her labor. She loved listening to music, which her filled house and it wasn’t unusual to see her raising her arm with joy and laughter and  shout out “YES”! Needless to say, she was the Life of the party!

She was a great confidant and always gave advice to each of us that will last a lifetime. She filled the room with joy, excitement, laughter and always had a welcoming spirit that will carry us through a lifetime. Memories is what she created, and for that, she will forever be in our hearts, minds and in everything we do.

She loved Colorado and I’m sure her soul has made a detour there to see it once again before settling in her new home of Glory forever.

Melba will be missed be all and we can only smile in knowing she is reunited in heaven with all her loved ones.  Until we meet again, “Melba, Mom, Granny, Sister and Friend” we will relish in your memory and hope to see you again.  We love you! 

Pallbearers will be: Clinton Blackmon, Markus Robinson, Matthew Sherman, Ricky Spurr, Jeffrey Harkey, and Samuel Arredondo.

Private services will be held.

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