Melba J Skinner

Melba J Skinner, age 85, of Hope, AR, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025, at her home. Born in Minden, LA, Melba was the oldest of six children. Her early years were spent in Louisiana until her family moved to Hope due to her father’s job with the railroad. She often shared fond memories of traveling by train with her siblings to visit family in Minden.

Melba graduated from Hope High School in 1957 and began her career shortly thereafter. She was known for her dedication, walking to work daily until she learned to drive at the age of 35. In 1961, she met Wesley, the love of her life, and they married on her 24th birthday. As a devoted military spouse, she supported Wesley and raised their two children.

After Wesley’s retirement, the couple settled in Hope, where Melba worked for Bill Ellis Insurance and later became well-known for her 22 years of service in the County Clerk’s office alongside Velora Haltom. She was a lifelong member of Garrett Memorial Church; she was also an active participant in the Iris Warren Sunday school class.

Melba was preceded in death by her beloved husband Wesley, her son Russell, her sister Linda Crane, her brothers Charles and David Russell, her sister-in-law Carolyn Russell, and her brothers-in-law Larry Crane and Aaron Skinner.

She is survived by her daughter Leslie and husband John, her stepsons Wes, Michael, and Jeff Skinner, her granddaughter Hannah Huckabee and husband Weston, her great-grandchildren Avery Goad and Stetson Huckabee, her sister Reba Morehead and husband Charles, her brother Tommy Russell and wife Ada, her sisters-in-law Yvonne Russell and Margaret Skinner, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in the Oakcrest Chapel from 1:30 to 2:30 pm, followed by a funeral service at 2:30 pm Officiated by Bro. Clif Johnson. Burial will take place at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Brazzel/Oakcrest, with Ben Brazzel as the director.