Melba Clydene Fox completed her earthly journey and returned to her heavenly home on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 21, 2020 at 10:00 AM in the Bangs Cemetery.

She was the third of six children born to Harvey C. Mathews and Ethel E. (Fitzgerald) Mathews. She was born on Tuesday, July 11, 1922 in Brown County, but spent most of her childhood years growing up in the Elm Groove community. She graduated from Richard Springs High School.

As a young woman, Melba lived in several states due to the military career of her first husband, Leroy Estes. After his untimely death, Melba later met and married James V. Fox, her soul mate. The two were inseparable. Melba and James lived in Breckenridge, TX for many years. Upon James’ retirement they moved to Bangs.

Melba was a member of the First Baptist Church of Lake Brownwood. She had a caring spirit and a strong love for God. She deeply loved her family and enjoyed many friends in her lifetime. Her interest included her beloved pets, painting, sewing, cooking and gardening. Melba was cherished by her family and will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her daughter Bettye Rose-Valdez and husband Steve of Brownwood; grandson Mark Pilkington III and wife Whitney of Breckenridge; great-granddaughters, Amber Reedy and Presley Pilkington; two great-great grandsons; step-daughter Jeanne Reynolds; step-son Bill Fox and wife Sherrell.

Melba is preceded in death by her parents Harvey and Ethel Mathews; husband Leroy Estes; husband James Fox; four brothers, H C Mathews, Mervil Mathews, Billy Mathews, J L (Jeet) Mathews; sister Bettie Perkins and step-son James (Buster) Fox Jr.

Memorial contributions may be made in Melba’s memory to the Gieons International and St. Jude’s Children’s Hosptial.

Online condolences can be made to the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net.