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Melba Jean Wilkey Castleman, 87 of Salem, Arkansas, passed from this walk of life to her Heavenly home on Friday, September 26, 2025, in Salem.
She was born in Wilson, Arkansas on March 23, 1938, daughter of the late Roy Mitchell and Mary (Eudy) Wilkey. During her working years, Melba worked in insurance sales. She was a member of the Salem First Baptist Church in Salem, Arkansas, where when she was able to, she loved to go on the “old folks” trips and work at the church in various capacities. Melba enjoyed visiting with her grandchildren, playing bingo and traveling with her aunt.
Melba is survived by her son, Bryan Keith Castleman of Florida; daughter, Cindy Castleman of Florida; sister, Mary Moore of Salem, Arkansas, grandchildren, Briana Kay Castleman, Bryan Keith Castleman, Jr. and Brandon K. Castleman all of Florida; great grandchildren, Cooper Rudd, Micah Rudd and Jaxson Castleman; bonus children, Robbie (Barry) Alred and W.K. “Bill” (Wanda) Weston and special nephew who took great care of her, Joe and his wife Sandy Massey.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, John Wilkey and Mitchell Wilkey.
Graveside services will be Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Crittenden Memorial Park in Marion, Arkansas, beginning at 10:00 AM with Bro. Tom Doty officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Doty Family Funeral Service Chapel in Salem, Arkansas, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to Stop The Cycle, PO Box 454, Salem, Arkansas 72576.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
140 North Pickren Street PO Box 395, Salem, AR 72576
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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