SMITH, Melba Leota (Baughman) - b. June 23, 1928 - d. July 31, 2023

[patyrn]

Melba Leota Smith, age 95, a longtime resident of Longton, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2023 at Labette Health in Independence, Kansas.  She was born on June 23, 1928 in Moline Kansas to James "Howard" and Vida Grace (Jay) Baughman.

Melba grew up and attended school in Howard, Kansas, graduating from Howard High School in 1946.  In her early years, she worked at the Longton Cafe as a cook and waitress where she was appreciated for her fabulous pies.  She met her beloved husband, George Smith, there.  They married on August 17, 1947.  Melba later moved to the manufacturing industry where she was employed at Emerson Electric.  She retired in 1988 after many years of dedicated service but her commitment to her community didn't stop there.  She continued to work at the Longton Senior Center until 201

Melba was a longtime member of the Longton United Methodist Church where she played an active role in serving her community.  In her leisure time, she enjoyed watching NASCAR races, the Atlanta Braves, and solving word search puzzles.  Above all, she treasured the moments she spent surrounded by her family. 

Melba was a dedicated, loving, supportive, and thoughtful woman who was known for her resilience, warmth, and unwavering love for her family.  She was a beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and community member who will be greatly missed.

Melba is survived by her children, Fonetta Keith, William (Regina) Smith, Mary Ann (Randy) Moore, and Milo (Karlene) Smith, and  her sons-in-law, Gary Floyd and Chuck Seamans.  She was preceded in death by her husband, George Smith on April 11, 1996; her parents, Howard and Vida Baughman; her daughters, Wauneta Floyd and Linda Seamans; her granddaughter, Michelle Hogan; and her son-in-law, James Keith.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Longton, Kansas followed by the funeral service at the church at 11:00 a.m. We encourage all who knew and loved Melba to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page at www.dwbfh.com as a testament to her beautiful life.  Her memory will forever remain in our hearts.   David W. Barnes Funeral Home of Coffeyville, Kansas is in charge of arrangements.