Melba Lee Tidwell

Melba Lee Tidwell, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, just four days shy of her 87th birthday. Born on February 10, 1938, in Cleveland, Texas, Melba lived a life full of devotion, creativity, and love, leaving a profound mark on all who had the privilege to know her.

Throughout her career, Melba dedicated herself to public service, retiring from the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department after many years of loyal service. Her commitment to her community did not end there; she also worked with the San Jacinto County Sheriff's Department, served as an administrative assistant to the County Judge, and contributed her talents to TDCJ. In her earlier years, Melba began her professional journey as a bank teller at Cleveland First National Bank, where her warm smile and genuine kindness made lasting impressions on those around her.

Melba had a passion for the arts; she loved to sew and engage in various arts and crafts, bringing countless creations to life. Her creative spirit extended to her gardening, where she showcased her green thumb by crafting beautiful floral arrangements that she would lovingly bring to the graves of family members. She also had a soft spot for her two beloved dogs, Princess and Lucy, who brought her immense joy and companionship throughout her life.

Melba's legacy is beautifully carried on by her loving family. She is survived by her sons, Clarence Tidwell and his partner Wendy Szymanski, and Thomas Tidwell and his wife Connie. She cherished her brother, Norman "Red" Robison, and her sisters, Helen Haggard and Joyce Brown, as well as her sister-in-law, Dorothy Capers. Melba took great pride in her grandchildren, Casey Valderez and her husband Shawn, Shane Tidwell, and Kyle Tidwell. Her heart swelled with love for her great-grandchildren, Marissa Crossin and her husband Austin, Peyton Ellis and her husband Jake, and Kyersten Valderez, and her great-great-grandchildren, Prestyn Crossin and Dallas Crossin. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous loving nieces, nephews, family members, and a host of treasured friends.

Preceding Melba in death was her devoted husband, Alfred Lee Tidwell; her parents, James Robison and Pearl Hickman; and her brother, JB Robison.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Crystal Terry and 365 Hospice for the love, support, and care they bestowed upon Mom during her final days.

Melba Lee Tidwell will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on through the memories she created and the love she shared. A visitation will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 AM, all taking place at Neal Funeral Home, located at 200 South Washington Avenue in Cleveland, Texas. In this time of remembrance, may we celebrate the remarkable life of a woman who touched so many lives with her kindness and creativity.

All services are being handled under the trusted care of Neal Funeral Home.