Melba Maxine Denton, 78

September 6, 1947 – September 9, 2025

Melba Maxine Denton, age 78, departed this earthly life on Tuesday morning, September 9, 2025, and entered into her Heavenly Home as her family lovingly stood by her side, surrounding her with the same love she had so freely given throughout her life.

Funeral Service honoring Ms. Melba’s life will be held at 1 PM Thursday, September 11, 2025, in the Heritage Chapel of the Ripley Funeral Home with Bro. Toby Mears and Bro. Stacy McKee officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday evening, September 10, from 5 PM until 8 PM, and will continue Thursday morning from 9 AM until the time of service, all at Ripley Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Marlow Church of Christ Cemetery with a simple graveside prayer.

Born September 6, 1947, in Belden, Mississippi, Ms. Melba was the daughter of the late Cecil D. and Elsie R. Jones Denton. She grew up in a close-knit family and received her education from Belden High School before marrying and raising her two beloved sons, Timmy and Tommy. In the 1990s, with courage and determination, she pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. After graduating from Northeast Mississippi Community College with her LPN license, she faithfully served in the nursing field for more than 20 years. Her career was not just a profession but a calling—one she embraced wholeheartedly. Whether caring for the elderly in Tippah County nursing homes or offering a kind word to families, Ms. Melba carried out her work with grace, dignity, and compassion. Patients, families, and co-workers alike were touched by her gentle nature and unwavering dedication.

A devoted Christian and believer in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Ms. Melba lived out her faith daily in the way she treated others—with kindness, humility, and love. She found joy in the simple blessings of life: tending to her flowers, watching her favorite shows, and walking the aisles of a good bargain store. Bargain hunting became a pastime she especially enjoyed, and those who knew her best knew her shopping trips were rarely just for herself. More often than not, her finds ended up in the hands of her grandchildren, whether they needed the item or not—because giving brought her joy. Spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was one of her greatest delights, and she took every opportunity to show her love through thoughtful and often unexpected gifts.

Above all, Ms. Melba’s greatest treasure was her family. She cherished time spent with her sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating a lifetime of memories that will be forever remembered. Her sweet spirit, generous heart, and willingness to look out for others have left an indelible mark on the lives of all who were blessed to know her.

Those left to carry on her legacy include her two sons, Timmy Hopper (Jennifer) and Tommy Hopper (Abbi); one sister, Billie Lyons; five grandchildren, Nick Hopper (Betsy), Matt Hopper, Kyle Hopper, Newt Hopper, and Natalie Hopper; six great-grandchildren, Emma, Ella, Olivia, Anna, Noah, and Eliza; her dear friend, Patsy McKee; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends who will remember her with love and gratitude.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Shirley Mears, Glenda Mears, and Peggy Young, and four brothers, Dwight Denton, Dewayne Denton, Richard Denton, and Paul Denton.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers will be Nick Hopper, Matt Hopper, Kyle Hopper, Newt Hopper, John Bennett, and Blake Norton. Honorary pallbearers will include Noah Hopper and Kevin Vick.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories and condolences with Ms. Melba’s family.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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Visitation

Wednesday
September 10, 2025
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral

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Funeral Service

Thursday
September 11, 2025
1:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral