Melba Frances Hicks, 89, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Melba was born and raised in Duncan, Oklahoma, to Verlon Stallons and Vergie Stallons (Stewart). She spent most of her life in Duncan, with a few years in Coffeyville, Kansas. In 1977, Melba and her husband, James Francis “Frank” Hicks, moved to Coffeyville, where they lived until 1983 before returning to Duncan. Melba remained in Duncan until 2014, when she moved to Bartlesville to live with her daughter, Dina.

Melba was a woman who understood the meaning of hard work. She spent most of her career in the food industry, where she found joy in cooking and caring for others through the meals she prepared. At one point in her career, she worked as a welder of oilfield centralizers. In a department made up entirely of men, Melba quickly earned a reputation as one of the best welders, if not the best, based on both the quantity and quality of her work. She never needed to be told that something could not be done—she simply went to work and proved that it could.

Her work ethic did not end when she came home. After long days at work, Melba would care for the two acres of rough land surrounding her home, mowing and weed-eating. She was always busy doing something and taking care of someone.

In her quieter moments, Melba enjoyed quilting, crocheting, and needlework. Early in her marriage, she and Frank spent many evenings bowling in leagues, creating memories that remained with her throughout her life.

Perhaps what best described Melba was the way she cared for other people. She was always looking out for someone else and was willing to step in and help whenever she was needed. She always seemed to have time for others—even when she really did not. She made time.

Melba’s faith was a very important part of her life. She loved the Lord and faithfully attended church for as long as she was able. Her faith remained an important part of who she was throughout her life.

Melba was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Francis “Frank” Hicks, who passed away on January 28, 2009, as well as her brother and sister.

She is survived by her children: John Hicks of Wichita, Kansas, and his wife, Dina Hicks; Andy Hicks of Yukon, Oklahoma, and his wife, Elaine Hicks; and her daughter, Dina Ryan of Bartlesville, Oklahoma. She is also survived by seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Melba will be remembered for her strength, incredible work ethic, faith, love of family, and willingness to help others. She gave so much of herself to the people around her and somehow always found a way to make time for those who needed her.

She will be deeply missed, but the love she gave and the memories she created will remain with her family forever.

Melba’s care has been entrusted to Carter-Smart Funeral Directors. A rosary service will be held at Assumption Catholic Church on Tuesday, May 15, 2026 at 9:00 am. Her service will immediately follow at 10:00 am with interment at Duncan Municipal Cemetery. Father Oby Zumas will officiate.

Online condolences can be made at www.cartersmartfuneralhome.com.