Melva Ruth Gresham

On February 15, 2026, Melva Ruth Heath Gresham, passed away at the age of 100 in Lewisville, Texas. Born on December 30, 1925, in Sanger, Texas, Melva's life was characterized by her unwavering spirit, resilience, and generosity toward those she loved. Melva's goal during her 99th year of life was to be part of the 0.04% of people who live to the age of 100. She made it surrounded by friends and family.

A proud graduate of Ponder High School and the Metro School of Business in Dallas, Texas, Melva embarked on a groundbreaking journey in the business world. As one of the first female entrepreneurs in Dallas, she owned the Melva Heath Printing Company, a testament to her determination and pioneering spirit. Her professional journey included prestigious business accounts, notably with American Airlines Flight School, which reflected her commitment to excellence. Even at the age of 99, her remarkable life story inspired many—her early struggles as a woman in business during a time when having a credit card was impossible, underscored her relentless tenacity and resourcefulness. 

She shared innumerable precious memories with her children, Jody, Doug, Claudia, Rip and Karen. Karen fondly recalls her happiest moments spent with Melva and her father at Jay's Marine Grill, where indulging in all-you-can-eat popovers became a cherished tradition. Karen loved spending time with Melva and Floyd in Sanger. This love of family extended to significant moments, such as attending Jody's piano recitals and Delta Zeta sorority events. The weekly painting lessons they enjoyed together created lasting bonds, cherished and remembered by Jody with great love. Sadly, Doug, Claudia, and Rip passed before Melva. The loss of her children were her very saddest moments.

Melva's most treasured qualities were her passion for life and her attention to detail in her personal appearance. A lover of shopping for clothes, wigs, and makeup, she embodied confidence and grace, often humorously acknowledging, "I know," when complimented on her figure even at 100! In times of confusion, she maintained a desire to be well-kept, showing her inherent dignity and spirited nature.

Her interests were varied and enriched her life; from her love of Lladro porcelain figures and flowers to her adoration for small dogs, Melva embraced the joys that filled her days. A proud member of the Bluebonnet Yorkshire Society, she enjoyed showing her beloved dog, creating yet another layer of connection and community in her life.

Melva found fulfillment not only in her passions but also in giving back. Her role as a room mother for seven consecutive years at Rosemont Elementary School revealed her nurturing spirit and her dedication to supporting the next generation.

Family was everything to Melva, and her deep connections with her sisters—Thelda Flanery, Alta Jo Smith, Marie James, Jan Hilger, and Ann Taylor—were a source of immense joy and comfort throughout her life. As she embraced the company of her sisters-in-law, Margaret and Hazel Ashcraft, and brother-in-law, JR Taylor, the bonds of kinship were a foundation she cherished.

Melva was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Floyd Gresham, and her late husband, Carl Heath Jr., as well as her brothers, Leroy, Clyde, and Troy Ashcraft, her sister, Annie Brucato, and her loving children, Doug Heath, Carl Heath III, and Claudia Wallace. Though they have departed, their memories will forever reside in the hearts of the family she leaves behind, including many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a great-great-grandchild, who were all the light of her life.

Her close friends, Doris and Don Zercher, also reflect the loving connections Melva cultivated throughout her journey, enhancing her life with their companionship and shared laughter.

Melva Ruth Gresham's legacy is one of love, strength, and resilience, and she will be deeply missed by those whose lives she touched. A funeral service to honor Melva will be held on February 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Bill DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton, Texas. As we remember her with fondness and gratitude, we celebrate a life well-lived and a spirit that will remain timeless in our hearts.