Melba Jean Stevens.... Age 85

Melba Jean Stevens age 85 of Shawnee, KS formerly of Parker, KS died Thursday June 18, 2020 at Homestead of Shawnee.

Melba was born May 19, 1935 in Cawook, MO. She was the second of three children born to Oscar Simon and Roberta (Ethel) Tinsley. She grew up in Armadell, KS. Melba’s mother passed away at a young age so she didn’t graduate. Instead she stayed home to become the mother figure. Then went on later to get her GED.

Through her father, Melba met Marvin Evert Stevens. It was love at first sight and within a short two weeks the couple was getting a marriage license and were joined in holy matrimony on May 15, 1953 in Kansas City, Kansas. They became the parents of three children Edith, Marvin Jr. and Tonya.  In 1968 Marvin and Melba were blessed with another addition to the family when they received a baby boy to call theirs, his name was Rodney. Marvin and Melba were married for over sixty-one years.

They made their home in the city and Melba did factory work and was a dietitian. In 1968, Melba and Marvin became Christians and were baptized on Palm Sunday. In 1974, they moved to Parker, KS and became active members of the First Baptist Church of Parker where Marvin served as Minister. Melba was always busy. She worked at the grocery store in Parker and cooked at the Parker Senior Center. She was a great mom and provider. Always having dinner on the table by six after working all day. Melba loved serving at church. Whether it was church dinners or Vacation Bible school she was always willing to help. In her free time she did crafts and puzzles.

She was preceded in death by her husband Marvin Sr., son Marvin Jr., grandson Jason Caray, her parents, brother Edward Tinsley and infant sister.

Survivors include two daughters: Edith (Danny) Caray of Kansas City, MO and Tonya (Gary Sr.) Williams of Shawnee, KS and son Rodney Hetzer of Parker, KS. Four grandchildren Roberta, Mike, Gary JR, and Gannon, and ten great grandchildren.