Melba Fern Briggs

Melba Fern Briggs, 91, of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025. She was born on February 5, 1934, in Hagerman, Texas, to Clyde and Ramah (Jacobs) Louis. As the oldest of seven children, Melba’s early years were spent balancing her education with helping care for her family, which shaped her lifelong role as a compassionate and devoted caretaker. Her selflessness and love for her family were evident in all aspects of her life.

Melba graduated from Denison High School and later met William Edward Wooley (Eddie), an Air Force Medic just back from the Korean War, whom she married in 1952. Together, their family spent time in England, Maine, Alabama, and finally back to Texas, being stationed at Carswell AFB but the decision was made to make Arlington home in 1968 to be closer to Melba’s brother and sister-in-law when Eddie was deployed to Vietnam. Arlington became home and Melba was set on building a loving home and family until Eddie’s passing in 1979. Melba’s nurturing spirit, combined with the discipline and structure she learned as a military wife, created a home filled with care, love, and attention to detail. She was never one to sit idle and could often be found tending to her household chores, yard work, or creating warm, comforting meals that will forever be remembered by her loved ones.

In the wake of Eddie’s passing, Melba continued to pour her energy and love into her family, especially in her later years when she was blessed with nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her devotion to her loved ones remained tireless and unwavering until the end.

Melba is survived by her son, Ron Wooley (wife Kim) of Arlington, and daughter, Rhonda Custor (husband Fred) of Bedford, and grandchildren Jenna Smith (husband Colby) and Lauren Wooley as well as great grandchildren Jade, Ruby, Amelia and Cooper. A Celebration of Life will be held at Wade Funeral Home on March 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., with graveside services following at Greenwood Memorial Park.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of her family.

Melba’s family is requesting florals in lieu of charitable donations.