Melba L. Whitlow

On January 30, 2026, Melba L. Whitlow (Solida) passed peacefully into her heavenly rest, after a lifetime devoted to loving and caring for others. She leaves behind her devoted daughters, Sherry Allison and Tina Ford, and her son, Terry Whitlow. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of many years, Noel Dean Whitlow, and their son, Craig Steven Whitlow, along with several cherished family members and dear friends. Melba was the proud and loving grandmother of seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy.

Born on January 14, 1935, in Barren, Arkansas, Melba's life was defined by faith, family, and a strong sense of community. She met the love of her life, Dean Whitlow, and they were married on December 31, 1953, sharing a lifetime of faith, family, and devotion. Together, they made homes in many places-from Tucson, Arizona, to Bedford, Pennsylvania, and eventually Houston and Pearland, Texas-wherever life led them, they built warmth and welcome.

Melba worked for the Pearland Independent School District and later fulfilled her entrepreneurial spirit by owning and operating the beloved Hen House Quilt Shop, a place that reflected her creativity and love for bringing people together. In her later years, she retired to Westwood Shores in Trinity, Texas, where she continued to be active in her church and community, always ready to encourage, and uplift.

Above all else, Melba will be remembered as a devoted wife, a loving mother, a proud grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a faithful friend. Her gentle spirit, generous heart, and unwavering faith touched countless lives and will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Melba's life, including a graveside service, will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at South Park Funeral Home, 1310 N. Main Street, Pearland, Texas 77581.

Scripture:

Proverbs 31:28 (KJV)

"Her children arise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."

1 Corinthians 15:54-57 (KJV)

54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory?56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.