HEFLIN, Melba J.

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, Arizona Published Wednesday, September 17, 2008 Melba J. Heflin passed away Sept. 3, 2008, in Lake Havasu City. Melba was born Jan. 28, 1936 to Leroy and Ava Byrd in Kennett, Mo. Melba married Benjamin Heflin Jan. 3, 1960, in Yuma. Melba and Bejnamin have resided here in Lake Havasu City for seven years, prior to Lake Havasu City Melba and Benjamin lived in Pahrump, Nev., and numerous other places. Melba is survived by her husband, Benjamin Heflin; daughter, Jeana Heflin; of Lake Havasu City; son, Anthony Underwood; of Enterprise, Ala.; stepson, Lawson Heflin; of Yuma; stepdaughter, Kim Blair, of Brawley, Calif.; grandson, Jason (Lucy) Underwood, of Springhill, Fla.; grandson, Tony Blair; great grandsons,-Dylan and Devin Underwood; of Springhill, Fla.; sisters, Gloria Strochein; of Blythe, Calif., Gwen Boren; of Adelanto, Calif.; numerous nieces, nephews, and loving friends. Melba is preceded in death by daughter, Lavonda Underwood; brothers, Paul Byrd, David Byrd; parents, Ava and Leroy Byrd. Melba (momma) was-and always will be- the center of her family. She took great pride in keeping a loving home and raising her family. She was the rarest of career women, a fulltime wife and mother, something of which we are so thankful for. Though she worked hard every day of her life taking care of her family, running a cherry orchard, and what ever needed to be done, time was also made for fun. She had many hobbies and activities that she enjoyed doing, such as sewing and crocheting; beach combing, when she lived in Hawaii; reading; throwing parties for family and friends; watching the Arizona Diamondbacks and Phoenix Suns play; and traveling the country. Throughout her life she took every opportunity to keep growing and learning, and felt the brick and mortar schools weren't the only way one should become educated. Many hearts are missing you now, Mom, but we are comforted knowing that you are finally free from the shackles of illness. We'd also like to thank all of the wonderful people of Hospice of Havasu. They did so much to comfort her while she was here and were such a blessing to her family, as well. God Bless You, Momma. We love you now and always. At Melba's request there will be no services. In lieu of flowers Melba requested that donations be made instead to: Hospice of Havasu; food banks; American Lung Association; or charity of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Lake Havasu Mortuary.