Melba Jean Hayes passed peacefully from this life on August 5, 2025, leaving a gentle silence on the bowling lanes she once brought to life.
Born on July 27, 1929, Melba was an avid bowler who played on several leagues and competed in tournaments for many years. Her passion for the sport was evident in her impressive top score of 278.
Off the lanes, Melba found joy in quiet moments with her Bible and a good Christian romance novel. Reading was her escape, books filled her shelves and boxes, many worn from love, others waiting for their time. She also kept an extensive Guideposts collection, treasuring stories that lifted the spirit.
Melba also had a gift for photography, often seen with her 35mm camera in hand. Capturing life’s moments brought her joy, and she was often asked to photograph weddings, preserving the happiest days of others’ lives through her lens. She had a deep love for dogs, and the feeling was mutual, every dog seemed drawn to her warm, welcoming spirit.
Melba’s memory was sharp, and she never forgot a meaningful date. Many were touched by her thoughtful cards sent at just the right moment, a testament to her caring nature.
In her early years, Melba worked as a secretary in downtown Oklahoma City before finding her true joy as a homemaker. Later, at church, she found her second home. She served faithfully, teaching Sunday school and leading Bible studies with wisdom and grace. She served as an active member of Selecman Methodist Church before later joining the Cowboy Church in Tri-City after moving.
Above all else, Melba was “Mom,” “Grandma,” and even “Aunt Donnie” to many. Her love extended far beyond blood, everyone she met became family, every child a grandchild. She lived a life led by love, and everyone who knew her felt it.
Melba is survived by her four daughters: Illa Fuller and her husband, Raymond; Terry Rowden and her husband, Curtiss; Janis Myers and her husband, Russell; and Kathy McNellan. She is also survived by her daughters-in-law, Angela Hayes and Cindy McCubbin; 15 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren. In addition, she leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, Jack Dempsey; her sons, Ron McCubbin and Jack “Larry” Hayes; two grandchildren, Ryan McCubbin and Jennifer Myers; her parents, Fern and John O’Neal; four brothers; three sisters; and her infant brother and infant twin sister.
She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.
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