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Melba Thomas Obituary
Melba June Thomas passed away unexpectedly on September 27, 2025, at Primrose Retirement Community in Midland at the age of 93. She was born July 17, 1932, in St. Clair Shores, MI, to William and Verbena Stoll. Melba was raised in Mt. Clemens by her father and wonderful stepmother, Bernice. Melba was the last to survive of the Stoll family siblings, Vera Hopper, Alice Taylor, Marjorie Brillhart, Don Stoll; and half-brother, Bill Stoll. She is survived by her half-sister, Shirley Kemppainen, in L'Anse.
At age 19, Melba met the love of her life, Robert Thomas. Melba often recalled with great fondness that it was "love at first sight" when she and Bob met at a church-sponsored organization, the San Mar Club, that Melba started for young adults. Bob and Melba were married on June 7, 1954, in Louisville, KY. Following Bob's army discharge, they moved to Midland in 1956.
While balancing child-rearing and homemaking, Melba was also the business manager for their busy photography studio, Thomas Photography. During their 43 years of business, Melba faithfully worked by Bob's side as he took graduation pictures, individual and family portraits, weddings, team pictures, and more.
Melba and Bob had been married for 70 years when Bob passed away on March 11, 2025. Melba is survived by her three children, Mary Kay (Jerry) Faber of Midland, Linda (Harley) Thomas of Bear Lake, and Stacy Carr of Sanford; as well as six grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.
Melba's sweet smile and spirit will truly be missed by all who knew her.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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