Nelda Melvin 1939-2026

Nelda Karen Melvin, 87, of Soldier, passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at her grandson’s home in Onaga.

She was born April 21, 1939, in Corning, the daughter of Leland Lyle and Donna Audrey (Clem) Steele.

Nelda graduated from Corning High School in 1957. She was a lifelong farm wife, a cook for Onaga Community Hospital for many years and later helped care for patients at their home.

She was a member of Corning Trinity United Methodist Church and the YL Club of Soldier and Corning.

Nelda was a devoted wife, mother and grandma. She enjoyed watching her hummingbirds, cardinals, fishing and cooking for her family.

Nelda married Lyle Henry Melvin on Feb. 9, 1958, in Corning. They celebrated more than 68 years of marriage.

To this union, their son, Kenneth Lyle Melvin was born; he preceded them in death on Oct. 8, 2023. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Leland and Donna Steele; and an infant great-granddaughter, Timberlee Faye Melvin, on June 23, 2026.

Survivors include her three grandsons, Steven Lyle Melvin (Cammie) of Randolph, Jeremy Lee Melvin (Emily) of Soldier and Brendan Lane Melvin (Bailey Baker) of Topeka; four great-grandchildren, Hannah Elizabeth, Henry Dean, Jackson Lyle and Hayslee Jane Melvin; a daughter-in-law, Denise L. Melvin of Onaga; and a sister, Norma Baxter of Holton.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 14 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at America City Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be given to Steven Melvin designated for headstone restoration at America City Cemetery, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

(PAID OBITUARY)