Melba J. Harper

Melba worked as a clerk for Phillips 66 for 25 years. Outside of work, she found great joy in caring for her family and sharing her many talents with those she loved. She enjoyed cooking meals from scratch and was known for baking cakes for birthdays and every special occasion. A gifted seamstress, Melba made clothing for her family members as well as many of the dresses she wore to work. She also loved playing the piano.

Melba shared 62 years of marriage with her devoted husband, James H. Harper Sr. Together, they built a loving family and created a lifetime of cherished memories.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin Parr and Virgie Parr; her sister, Rebekah Latham; and her great-grandchild, Peyton Herrera.

She is survived by her husband, James H. Harper Sr.; her daughters, Carolyn Smith and husband Mark, and Lynette Cash and husband Sam; and her son, James H. Harper Jr. and wife Helen.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, Lance Richardson and wife Kelli, Cassie Richardson, Dustin Harper, Brandon Richardson and wife Maranda, Justin Bryson and wife Brenda, Colton Harper and wife Mariah, Savannah Davis and husband Austin, and Tamra Bowlin and husband Wade; as well as 19 great-grandchildren.

Melba will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her generous heart, and the love she poured into everything she made—from homemade meals and celebration cakes to carefully sewn clothing and beautiful music.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Eddie and Linda Sampson for their never-ending friendship, love, and support.

Melba J. Harper passed on July 19, 2026, at the age of 82. Born November 6, 1943, Melba’s life will be honored at Pasadena Funeral Chapel, 2203 PASADENA BLVD, PASADENA, TX 77502, US, with a Visitation on August 8, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.