Melba Eloise McCuistian Cunningham

Melba Eloise McCuistian Cunningham

College Station, TX

Melba Cunningham, 88, passed away May 15, 2014. She was dearly beloved by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and lifelong friends. Melba grew up in the Church of Christ and was baptized at age 13. She was always proud to be a child of God and follower of Jesus.

Melba was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and siblings. She is survived by daughter Kay and husband Jim Smith of Bryan, Texas; son Steve and wife Sue Cunningham of Allen, Texas; son Greg and wife Nita Cunningham of Gunter, Texas; and daughter Christy and husband Bill Williams of Gunter, Texas; as well as 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Melba was born and raised in Olney, Texas, and moved to Abilene in 1964. She worked as a dental hygienist and later became known as the "Estee Lauder Lady" during her 30 years working at Grissom's and Dunlap's department stores in Abilene.

Moving to College Station in 1997, Melba was an active member of A & M Church of Christ and the seniors for Christ group. She enjoyed reading, shopping, visiting with friends and family, and keeping up with politics and sports. Melba was never at a loss for words, never met a stranger, and most always had a rhyme or witty comment. Those who knew her well will always remember receiving a "greeting" on a holiday, sharing a "morsel" at her table, and being mesmerized by the power of her lashes.

She wore many hats in her long life-daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, loyal friend, good listener, salesperson, sports fan, and always child of God. Her lively nature and exceptional sense of style were delightful hallmarks but it was her love for her family and of Jesus which truly defined her.

Final arrangements are being handled by Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Crematory in Bryan, Texas. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, at A&M Church of Christ Chapel in College Station, Texas.

Donations in her memory may be made to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, Abilene Christian Schools, or a charity of your choice.

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