Melba Jewel Rankin

November 22, 1928 - March 3, 2020

Melba Jewel Rankin of Ironton, Missouri passed away March 3, 2020 at The Baptist Home at the age of 91 years. She was born on November 22, 1928 in Perry, Arkansas the daughter of the late William H. “Mike” Conrade and Effie (Blair) Conrade. On August 8, 1947 she was united in marriage to William Paul Rankin who preceded her in death on February 12, 2019. To this union five children were born; Stephen Rankin of St. Louis, Missouri, Deborah Angelo and husband, Charles of Imperial, Missouri, Judith Rankin who preceded her in death, Roy “Bruce” Rankin of Mesa, Arizona, and Phillip Rankin and wife Sharon of Center, Missouri. Melba is also survived by her brothers; Ray Conrade of Little Rock, Arkansas, Jimmy Conrade of Cabot, Arkansas, her sisters; Louise Chapman of Scott, Arkansas and Bettye Yelvington of Fort Smith, Arkansas, thirteen grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Melba was preceded in death by two brothers; Jack Conrade and Reed Conrade and two sisters; Marie Beamer and Alline Blanton. Melba was a member of Arnold First Baptist Church at the time of her passing. She was a member of Tower Grove Baptist for over forty years. She was also a member of the Ironton First Baptist Church. Melba enjoyed reading her Bible and teaching Sunday School. She taught adult Sunday School classes for thirty years and she also taught children’s Sunday School. Melba was an excellent cook and she enjoyed cooking.