Melba Jean Ingram, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully of natural causes on June 9, 2024, at her home in Rector, Ark. Born on April 28, 1942, in Craighead County, she was a cherished daughter to the late Wesley and Bertha (Brooks) Bynum. Melba’s life was a testament to the power of kindness and the strength of family bonds.

Melba’s journey through life was shared with her devoted husband, Wayne Ingram, who stood by her side in a partnership that was a true example of enduring love. Together, they raised a family that became her pride and joy. She was a guiding light to her sons, Douglas Ingram of Heber Springs and Chris and Carol Ingram of Jacksonville, Ark. Her role as a grandmother to Lindsey, Jimmy, Addy, and Jessica Cossey was one she embraced with every ounce of her being, and her love extended to her great-grandchildren, Levi White, Tucker Cooksey, Rylee Cossey, and Rex Cossey, who brought her immeasurable happiness.

Melba was preceded in death by her sister, Peggy Ingram, and is survived by her sister, Diane Brewer, who will miss her dearly. The legacy of Melba’s kind and loving spirit will live on through her family, who will continue to honor her memory by embodying the values she held dear.

A woman of many talents, Melba was a homemaker who was never daunted by any task. Her hands, always busy, tended to her garden with as much care as she did her family, nurturing her plants and flowers with the same love and attention. Melba’s home was not only a place of beauty but also a sanctuary of peace, where she fulfilled her role as a peacemaker with grace and humility.

Her commitment to her faith was unwavering, and she shared this devotion by teaching the children in her church and lifting her voice in song as a member of the choir. Melba’s faith-filled life was an inspiration to all who knew her, and her kind spirit was a comfort to those around her.

Visitation was held at 1 p.m. June 12, 2024 at the Irby-Mitchell Funeral Home in Rector with the service following at 2 p.m. Interment was at the Woodland Heights Cemetery in Rector.