Melba Leota Smith, 95, a long-time resident of Longton, Kansas passed away peacefully on July 31, 2023, at Labette Health in Independence, Kansas.
She was born on June 23, 1928, in Moline, Kansas to James "Howard" and Vida Grace (Jay) Baughman. Melba grew up and attended school in Howard, Kansas graduating from Howard High School in 1946.
In her early years, Melba worked at the Longton Cafe as a cook and waitress where she was appreciated for her fabulous pies. She met her beloved husband, George Smith, there, and they married on August 17, 1947. Melba later moved to the manufacturing industry, where she was employed at Emerson Electric. She retired in 1988 after many years of dedicated service, but her commitment to her community didn't stop there. She continued to work at the Longton Senior Citizens Center until 2011. Her husband George preceded her in death on April 11, 1996.
Melba was a longtime member of the Longton United Methodist Church, where she played an active role in serving her community. In her leisure time, she enjoyed watching Nascar Races, the Atlanta Braves, and solving word search puzzles. But above all, she treasured the moments she spent surrounded by her family.
She was a dedicated, loving, supportive, and thoughtful woman who was known for her resilience, warmth, and unwavering love for her family. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and community member who will be greatly missed.
Melba is survived by her children, Fonetta Keith, William (Regina) Smith, Mary Ann (Randy) Moore, and Milo (Karlene) Smith; her sons-in-law, Gary Floyd, and Chuck Seamans. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Smith; her parents, James and Vida Baughman; her daughters, Wauneta Floyd and Linda Seamans; her granddaughter, Michelle Hogan, and her son-in-law James Keith.
The visitation will be held at the United Methodist Church, 200 West 5th Street, Longton, Kansas, 67352, on Thursday, August 03, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The funeral service will also be at the United Methodist Church and will commence at 11:00 a.m.
We encourage all who knew and loved Melba to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page at www.dwbfh.com as a testament to her beautiful life. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts.
David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville is in charge of arrangements
