Melba M. Burgett

Melba M. (Tiemeier) Burgett passed away on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born June 14, 1935 in Seymour, Indiana to the late Edward A. and Clara A. (Moorman) Tiemeier, one of seven children. As a child, she moved with her family to Indianapolis, and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in 1953. On February 16, 1957, Melba married the love of her life, Donald "Don" W. Burgett and together they joined St. John Lutheran Church on July 1, 1961, attending services regularly with their children. They were married 63 years until Don passed away on April 18, 2020.
Melba's labor of love was sewing countless penafores for patients of Riley Hospital. She added a pocket to the front so patients could tuck a small toy inside. Melba was a perfectionist and every penafore lived up to her high standards before being presented to the hospital. In addition to sewing, she also made various crafts, played cards, and completed jigsaw puzzles. Melba enjoyed spending time with Don: trips on their Honda Helix, attending Pacers games, or simply just holding hands. She cherished spending time with her family and friends.
Besides her husband, Don, Melba was preceded in death by her grandson, Brandon McIlquham. She is survived by her children: Ricky (Susan) Burgett, Randy (Sherrie) Burgett, Lori McIlquham Patterson, and Lisa (Brian) Perry. She is also survived by grandchildren: Shaun, Justin, Lance, Andrew (Erin), Phillip, Rachel (Chris), Karly, and Kayla; and great-grandchildren: Brennan, Mason, Skylar, Starlett, Laynie, Logan, Vanessa, Ethan, and Gerald.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Otterbein SeniorLife in Franklin for their loving and compassionate care for nearly eight years.
Services will be held on Tuesday, June 17th, with visitation 8:00-10:00am/funeral service 10:00am at St. John Lutheran Church, 6630 Southeastern Avenue, Indianapolis. Burial service will begin at 11:30am at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens in Greenwood. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John Lutheran Church. Arrangements entrusted to Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service & Crematory-Franklin Township Chapel.