Melba Bailey

Melba Bailey, 72, of Firth passed away on Tuesday April 7, 2009 in Idaho Falls after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Her family was at her side.

Melba was born September 24, 1936 in Riverside, Idaho to Melvin Alvin Ockerman and Dorothy Matilda “Tillie” Yancey. Her early years were spent in Riverside and Goshen. On January 22, 1951 she married Franklin L. Bailey. Their first home was in Basalt, ID. In 1967 they bought a farm west of Firth where she lived until her death.

Melba enjoyed time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and they all looked forward to the time that was spent with her. She took great pride in keeping a lovely home and beautiful yard and garden. She enjoyed both oil and tole painting and she had a great talent for it. She has given her family many pieces of her artwork that they all cherish.

Melba is survived by her husband of 58 years, Frank, of Firth; her children, John (Gina) of Firth; Mike (Lisa) of Seattle, WA; JoLynn (Mark) John of Malad; Vivian (Gary) Hansen of Shelley; brothers, Ralph Ockerman of Idaho Falls; and Kent Ockerman of Firth; 7 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Kathryn, and a brother, Vern Ockerman.

The family would like to give a special ‘thank you’ to Dr. Shull and the organization at Snake River Oncology for the special care and assistance they provided in Melba’s battle with cancer.

Graveside services will be held 12:00 P.M. Saturday, April 11, 2009 at the Riverview Cemetery in Firth. The family will receive friends Friday evening 7:00 till 8:30 P.M. at Nalder Funeral Home (110 West Oak Street) in Shelley.