Melba Lovena Cecil, aged 96, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, in Heppner, Oregon. Born on April 19, 1928, in Heppner, Oregon, Melba was the oldest of 10 children. She was a beloved figure in her community and an integral part of her family's life. It has been said many times by her family members that they wish they could be half the person Melba was. She was compassionate, loving, understanding, hardworking, and had a quiet sense of humor.
Melba spent her early years attending schools in Heppner, Kinzua, and Spray, Oregon, completing her education in Spray. She married her best friend and love of her life Frank Cecil on March 17, 1944. Together they raised two daughters Jan and Judy. Throughout her life, she was deeply involved in a variety of crafts and activities that not only brought joy to her but also benefited those around her. An adept gardener, seamstress, knitter, painter, leatherworker, and woodworker, Melba was known for her quilts, paintings, and handmade furniture. She raised a large garden each year and canned lots of fruit and vegetables. Her culinary skills were appreciated by many, especially at the Spray School where she worked as a cook, ensuring students and staff enjoyed wholesome meals.
Alongside her husband, Frank Cecil, Melba was a cornerstone of their ranch, assisting with everything from driving tractors, changing sprinklers, and tending to livestock. She enjoyed raising her bummer lambs and was known to have a bummer calf in the basement keeping warm from time to time. Her life was characterized by open arms and an open door, always ready to offer help or a home to those in need. After retiring, she and Frank cherished traveling to Ireland, Washington D.C., and New York exploring new landscapes and experiences while making many new friends. Melba enjoyed the outdoors; camping and fishing when time allowed. She was often heard saying that they could not pass a gym if the lights were on or a softball field in play. Melba enjoyed watching the Spray Eagles in various sports. She also traveled to watch her grandchildren and great grandchildren in their school events, 4-H, and rodeo.
Melba is survived by her daughters, Jan Stroeber (Don) and Judy Alford (late Web); extended family Tim (Tammy) Wallawine and Kay (Craig) Braseth; grandchildren, Shelley (Mark) Hill, Cindy (Brett) King, Christy (Mike) Correa, Jason (Besty) Alford, and Justin Alford. Her legacy extends to her great-grandchildren, Shelbi, Cassidy, Colton, Makenzie, Morgan, Sierra, Lily, Keili, and Cheyenne; and great-great-grandchildren, Gracie, Beau, Paisley, and Paxton. She also leaves behind her siblings, Fairy Mae Caldera, June McClellan, Dwanye Caldera, and Marvin Caldera; dear friend Ellie Mann; and numerous nieces and nephews that always stayed in touch. Melba was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Cecil; parents, Alfred and Elsie Caldera; siblings, Frank Caldera, Dean Caldera, Otho Caldera, Pat Morrin, and Juanita Medlock; and son-in-law Web Alford.
A graveside service was held at the Haystack Cemetery in Spray, Oregon, at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, 2024. A celebration of life and dinner followed at The Rock in Spray, OR. Melba's life was a testament to her kindness, resilience, and the deep love she had for her family and friends. She will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.
Memorial contributions may be made in Melba's honor to the Spray Ambulance, PO Box 155, Spray, OR 97874.
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