Melba Garner Menninger

Melba Garner Menninger, 98, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday evening, May 28, 2013 in Harlingen, Texas with her son, John and his wife, Gaye by her side. Funeral services will be 1:00p.m, Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Faith, 5701 Hwy 277 South, Abilene, TX with Rev. Robert P. Kelley officiating. Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park under the direction of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.

She was born in Rotan, Texas on December 11, 1914 to John Bell Riherd and Rosa (Kiker) Riherd. She graduated from Abilene High School.

Melba attended St. Paul United Methodist Church for many years and worked at Thornton's Dept. Store in Abilene, Texas until her retirement. She enjoyed many years travelling locally and throughout the world with her friends. In 2004, she moved to Harlingen, Texas to be near her son John.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, J. Arlie Garner and George S. Menninger; her brother, Carl B. Riherd; a grandson, Gaines A. Garner; and great-granddaughter, Jenny Ann Garner.

Melba is survived by her sons, James A. Garner (Sue) and John O. Garner (Gaye). She will also be greatly missed by her grandchildren, Bryce, Greg, and Jimmy Garner; great-grandchildren, Jesse (Bobbie), Carol, Jon, Bo Garner; and great-great-granddaughter, Avery Garner. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Helen Garner; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to thank Dr. John A. Ferris, M.D. and his staff; Angel Care and staff; La Hacienda Healthcare and staff; and Odyssey Hospice for making her final years and last days comfortable.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church, 525 Beech St., Abilene, TX, 79601 or to the charity of your choice.