Melba Small

Melba Lynn Small, age 91, passed peacefully Saturday, November 19, 2016. Daughter of the late Johnnie L. Routt and Billie Louise (Hoskins) Routt, Melba was born on October 18, 1925 and spent her early years in Cooper, Texas. During her time at Cooper High School, she met Troy L. Small, who would walk six miles on the muddy road to see her when it rained. As soon as she finished high school, they were married and moved to Dallas. She then followed Troy around the country as he served in the military. At age 22, she had her only daughter, Linda Louise (Small) Harper. She spent many years as the Claims manager at Mayflower Moving Company, and said she never had to learn how to type, because she had “girls who did that for her.” Melba was devoted to her faith, and began teaching Sunday school at the age of twelve. In Dallas, she joined the Lakewood Assembly of God and was both supportive of and supported by the wonderful pastors and congregation there. When her parents became ill, she took them into her home and cared for them the rest of their days. This was Melba’s most wonderful attribute; she took care of everyone who needed her without fail. She provided a home for her daughter, her grandchildren, her great grandchildren, and even her great great grandson. With all of her family to care for, Melba still had more love to give. She volunteered at the White Rock Center of Hope for nearly 30 years. Melba had a great sense of humor and always found joy in her many children. She spent many beautiful hours in her beloved garden. One thing she never forgot was to put on lipstick, and she never let her girls forget it, either. Melba hoped that when she was gone it could be said of her that “she planted flowers along the way.” Melba was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Jimmie Louise, Billie Jean, and Sue; her husband, Troy L. Small; and her daughter, Linda (Small) Harper. She is survived by her grandchildren Barbra Alsip, Troy Harper and wife Licia; her great grandchildren, Angel (Price) Stone and husband Shane, Jonathon Harper, Ricky Alsip, Jamie and Adam Harper; and finally, her great-great grandson Gabriel Stone, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Funeral services will be held at Grove Hill Funeral Home Wednesday, November 23, 2016 at 10:00 am.