Melba L. Richwine, 97, Ephrata, worked at Husin Shirt Co., active member of First UMC

Melba L. Richwine went to be with her Lord Jesus Thursday, Feb. 19. She was 97 years old.

Melba spent her childhood in Manheim. She was the daughter of Chester Showers and Catherine (Adams) Showers. Melba later was married to Harry M. Richwine, they lived in Ephrata, were members of First United Methodist Church until Harry’s death. Harry served in the U.S. Navy in World War I.

Melba worked making blouses in Ephrata at Husin Shirt Co. They had one daughter, Carol, married to Henry C. Burkholder of Akron, and together Carol and Henry had four children: Steven, Ephrata; Wendy, Manheim; Todd, presently in Japan; and Troy, Ephrata. Wendy is married to Jeffrey Hendershot and they have three children: David, Holly, and Hope. Todd is married to Kadaeja Lee. Todd has one child: Charles Burkholder of Akron.

Melba played an active role at her church, she taught Sunday School for many years, she sang in First Church choir along with Harry. She enjoyed her treasury and presidency of the Ladies Missionary group, as well as her Sunday class.

For the last three years Melba called Oak Leaf Manor in Landisville her home. The staff at Oak Leaf was wonderful to her, and she died there very peacefully. While in residency the staff and fellow patients of Friendship place fell in love with Melba, and she fulfilled her joy and love of others.

Memorial services officiated by the Rev. Walter Carter will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 28, at Oak Leaf Manor North, 2901 Harrisburg Pike, Landisville.

Paul L. Gravenor Home For Funerals, Ephrata, is assisting the family with the arrangements. To send an online condolence, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com.