Obituary of Melba June Mapes Diamond

Melba June Mapes Diamond, 82, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 11, 2019. She was born on March 24, 1937 in Yantis, Tx to Julius and Sallie (Byrd) Mapes. After graduating Valedictorian of Yantis High School Class of 1955, she met a young pastor at Como Christian Church, who would soon become the love of her life, James B. Diamond.   Melba and James married on September 2, 1956 at Como Christian Church and shared in over 60 years in the ministry prior to James’ death in 2017.

Melba spent many years employed by the City of Sulphur Springs and TXU Electric from which she later retired. During her retirement she was introduced to quilting by her best friend, Carolyn Bryant. Melba’s talent in quilting won her multiple 1st place awards and blue ribbons throughout the years. She was an active member of the Lonestar Heritage Quilt Guild, and her family will be entering her most recent quilts in this year’s quilt show in her memory.

Melba is survived by her daughters; Susan Diamond of Sulphur Springs, Laura Taylor and husband Danny of Poteau, OK, and Angie Wenning and husband Kent of Sulphur Springs. Grandchildren are Chelsea Suttle of Dallas, Shelby Gammill and husband Johnathon of Sulphur Springs, Leslie Hemphill and husband Casey of Poteau, OK, Kellie Hale and husband Jordan of Barling, AR, Sallie Taylor of Poteau, OK, Austin English and Norris English, both of Sulphur Springs. Great grandsons Jackson, Jenner, and Jude, and great granddaughter, her namesake, Emma June, all of Sulphur Springs. She is also survived by her sister Pat Mullins of Mineola, and brother Ted Mapes and wife Charlott of Bullard, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Melba was preceded in death by her husband James, and her parents.

Memorials may be made to the League Street Church of Christ 39’ers Group, 1100 League St S, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. Arrangements are under the direction of West Oaks Funeral Home. www.westoaksfuneralhome.com