Melba J. Clarke Hansard passed away peacefully at her home Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024. Melba was born in Crane, Texas to Charles Alexander and Hazel Aberegg Clarke. 

Melba grew up in Midland, Texas where she attended Midland High School. She met her best friend and husband of 49 years in Odessa, Texas. George and Melba were married on Feb. 18, 1956. They nurtured a home and community alongside their four sons in Lamesa, Texas. They served faithfully as members of First Baptist Church Lamesa for more than 50 years.