She was born to Eugene "Gene" Norris and Sara Elizabeth "Bell" Norris on March 13, 1932 in Dekalb County, Ala.
Melba was welcomed home by her parents; her loving husband, Samuel Eugene Waldron; and her siblings, Gladys Norris, Eugene (Pershing) Norris, Buford Norris, Lorene Stevens, Willodean Dobson, Wynell Lawrence, Thomas Gene Norris, Jo Ann Monaco and Joyce Croft.
Left to honor her memory are son, Richard (Vicki) Hughes; daughter, Sharon (Wesley) Mallory; grandchildren, Matthew West (Christina), Carlie Hughes, James Ryan West (Jessica), Kayla Hughes (Jeff), Wesley Mallory (Ashlee), Ashley Mallory (Tracey); and great-grandchildren, Eleanor, Holden, James, Daisy, Nolan, Emerson, Wesley, Blanton; sister-in-law, Margie Dowdy; and a large extended family of nieces and nephews.
Melba retired from Philip Morris after 35 years of service. Traveling and cruising with her friends became a favorite hobby during retirement. Melba served weekly as a volunteer at Chippenham Hospital. She enjoyed fellowship at Open Door Baptist Church and was a member of the Sassy Seniors.
Melba cherished her summer visits to her place of birth, Dawson, Ala., for the Norris family reunion; churning homemade ice cream was on her must do list. She enjoyed sharing a pot of coffee and a chat with friends and family. She was no stranger to hard work. Melba remained active throughout her life. She fought a long and difficult battle with dementia, a journey that carried her into the lives of many loving and loved caregivers. Thank you, Nadine, Maxine, Dawn, Carrie Anne, Missy Boo, Melissa and the staff of The Haven for your care. We will see you soon, Mom, so keep your light shining bright.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 3, at Woody Funeral Home, Atlee Chapel, 9271 Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville, Va. 23116. The chapel will be open at 11:30 a.m. for visitation to be followed by a service at 12 p.m. Interment in Maury Cemetery.
