Melba Ruth Kellerman

Melba Ruth Kellerman, a beloved educator, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, was born on January 2, 1932, in Du Quoin, Illinois. She passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family.

Melba loved growing up on a farm outside the small town of Pinckneyville. She left the farm to earn her Bachelor’s degree from SIU Carbondale and living in the Baptist Women’s dorm (where she was caught breaking curfew her very first week!) and later her Master's degree in education from SIUE. Her working life started at the state mental hospital in Anna, Illinois, but it was within the walls of Central School in O'Fallon where she truly found her calling. For over 20 years, she taught kindergarten, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of her students and their parents alike. Many fondly remember her as a patient and encouraging presence to so many little ones.

Those who knew Melba could attest to her warm personality. She was incredibly welcoming, drawing people in with her gentle spirit and making everyone feel at home. She was not only a teacher but also a nurturer who contributed significantly to family life and the lives of others, as she took countless people under her wing, treating them as if they were part of her own family. International students from around the globe call her "grandma".

Melba had a knack for creating lasting family traditions. Each night, without fail, she played games, read Bible stories, and dove into captivating chapter books with her children as part of their bedtime routine. Her love for adventure shone brightly as she enjoyed many summer trips with her daughter, Valerie, and her grandchildren, Jonathan and Emma. Together they created memories at treasured spots like Hannibal, MO, Lincoln's home, and the delightful Wildlife Prairie Park.

She loved hard work and shared her passions generously, often turning the everyday into treasured memories. Her interests included pastimes she enjoyed with her family as she was an avid reader who cherished book club time with her daughter and granddaughter. She loved gardening, flowers, and appreciated the wonders of Creation. She found joy in watching the St. Louis Cardinals, as well as cheering passionately for the University of Illinois, Yale, and Smith College basketball teams.

Melba was immensely proud of her family. She held dearly her accomplishments in the world of education, particularly her mission to ensure quality leadership at Central School. Most of all her heart swelled with pride for her grandchildren, Jonathan and Emma, whom she considered the best part of her life.

She was predeceased by her parents, Richard and Ethel Kellerman, who instilled in her the values that she carried throughout her life. Melba is survived by her daughter, Valerie (Mark) Powers; her beloved grandchildren, Jonathan and Emma Powers; and her son, Richard Feezor.

Melba became a Christian at a very early age, attending Oak Grove Baptist Church. Later, she served as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher, as well as leading Girls in Action and Acteens at Winstanley Baptist Church. She was also devoted to the Women's Mission Circle, supporting her daughter and son-in-law in their work in Moscow, Russia. She trusted in her friend and Savior, Jesus and faced death as fearlessly as she lived her life.

The legacy of Melba Ruth Kellerman will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her—a woman who opened her heart and home to all, a guiding light in her community, and a devoted family member whose love knew no bounds. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever resonate in the laughter of children and the tenderness of family bonds she cherished so dearly.

In lieu of flowers, Melba wished to support two causes dear to her heart. Here are the options we've chosen to honor her memory:

You may donate to the Wildlife Prairie Park directly using the following link: https://sales.wildlifeprairiepark.org/Donation.aspx?CR=DON

When you go to this link, check the box that states, "Check box if this is a tribute or memorial". In the drop-down menu, the option for Melba Kellerman Memorial is available. After her name has been selected, the website will ask for information to complete payment. Alternatively, the Powers family will be establishing a memorial bench with her name engraved on it along a nature trail. You may send a check payable to "Wildlife Prairie Park" to their address: 10029 Barberton Drive, Saint Louis, MO. 63126 if you wish to contribute in this way.

Compassion International has put up a Memorial Page on their website in Melba's honor, with a link to take your donation: https://www.compassion.com/melbakellerman. By doing so, you will be contributing to meet the educational needs of children in underserved countries.

To share a memory of Melba or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.