Melba J. Gillum

Melba J. Gillum, age 94, of Bloomington passed away Sunday morning, January 17, 2021 at Garden Villa in Bloomington. Melba was born July 4, 1926 in Bloomington, the daughter of Clarence and Emma (Roberts) Engledow. Melba loved the Lord leading many people to walk beside her in following Jesus Christ. Melba was a charter member having served over 50 years at Emmanuel Baptist Church and served as a Sunday school teacher, primarily teaching the Awanna class. At church she was affectionately referred to as “Miss Melba”. She enjoyed camping as well as baking cakes and cookies. She also enjoyed gardening, canning and was especially known for her excellent black raspberry jelly. Along with all these activities she loved playing numerous board games. Melba is survived by one daughter, Terri McDaniel, of Magnolia, Texas, her son, Jake (Linda) Gillum, of Paoli, Indiana; six grandchildren, Brant (Loretta) Hoy, of Springville, Indiana, Martin Hoy, of Stanford, Indiana, Traci McDaniel, of Bloomington, Allyson (Brian) Funkhouser, of Bloomington, Amy Gray, of Magnolia, Texas, and Joy McDaniel, of Bedford, Indiana; two step-grandchildren, Jim and Greg (Renee) Hamilton, both of Paoli and ten great-grandchildren. Melba was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Gillum on April 15, 2003 and to whom she married on June 1, 1943 in Ozark, Alabama. She was also preceded in death by one daughter, Jan Hoy and four sisters, Mary Lois Pope, Mildred Westfall, Ruth Turner and LaVerne Robertson. Due to CoVid19 restrictions, there will be a private family gathering and service on Friday at the Emmanuel Baptist Church; 1503 W. That Rd. with Pastor Doug Schroeder officiating. Burial will follow in Valhalla Memory Gardens. Memorial contributions may be given to the Emmanuel Baptist Church. Online condolences may be given at www.DeremiahFryeMortuary.com