Melba Josephine Merkel

Melba Josephine “Hughes” Merkel, age 85, of Leander, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 6, 2025, at the Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Lockhart, Texas. Born on June 8, 1939, in Cedar Park, Texas, she was the cherished daughter of Luther Leroy Hughes and Edna Earl “Hyatt” Hughes.

Melba was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Carl Edward Merkel; her son, Carl Edward Merkel Jr.; and her sister, Tommie Lou Fish. She is lovingly remembered by her surviving family: her brother, Charles Hughes, and his wife, Alice Hughes; her brother-in-law, Edward Fish, husband of the late Tommie Lou Fish; and her five children. These include Teresa Jo Howard of Temple, Texas, widow of the late Charles Howard; Don Ray Merkel and his wife, Joanie Merkel, of Leander, Texas; Carla Yvonne Martin and her fiancé, Kyle Peters, of Daphne, Alabama; Richard Randall Merkel and his wife, Angie Merkel, of Lansing, Kansas; and William Lawrence Merkel and his fiancée, Becky Foster, of Pensacola, Florida.

Melba was the beloved matriarch of a large and loving family, with 22 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, several step great-grandchildren, and three precious great-great-grandchildren. Her limitless kindness, unwavering love, and selfless compassion left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her absence leaves an emptiness in our hearts, but her legacy of love will live on forever in the lives she touched.

Melba’s home was a sanctuary, a warm and welcoming haven for her family where everyone felt truly cared for. Despite her unwavering dedication to others, she always prioritized her own self-care. Her hair, makeup, and nails were always flawlessly maintained, a testament to her elegance and timeless grace. In her final days, she was lovingly supported by her niece, Julia Tillman, and her son, Don Merkel, who ensured she received the care she needed while preserving her sense of dignity and personal well-being.

Melba was a woman of remarkable creativity and intellect, with a soul deeply attuned to the arts and storytelling. Her passions included music—particularly Queen—letter writing, sketching, cooking, and losing herself in the pages of Stephen King novels. She had a unique talent for crafting folklore and spine-tingling stories, captivating her grandchildren during their visits with late-night tales that left lasting impressions.

Her vibrant spirit, imagination, and loving energy will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to have shared in her world. Melba’s legacy lives on in the memories she created and the hearts she touched.

A funeral service for Melba will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 2:00pm at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 1200 S Bagdad Road, Leander, Texas 78641, with burial to follow at Cedar Park Cemetery, 101 S. Bell Blvd, Cedar Park, Texas 78613. Family and friends are warmly invited to honor Melba’s memory during a Celebration of Life at 5:00pm at VFW Post 10427, 8760 Ranch Rd 2243, Leander, Texas 78641.

Melba’s enduring legacy of love and compassion will serve as a source of inspiration for everyone who knew her. She will forever hold a special place in the hearts of her family and friends.