Melba Jean Swanson, 94, passed away on February 24, 2026. She was born on February 22, 1932, in Hartford, Arkansas.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil “Swany” Swanson; her son, James Edward Nunley; her grandson, Jeremy Nunley; her parents, James and Nora Morrison; and her siblings George Morrison, Jimmy Morrison, Joyce Weaver, Marilyn Morrison, and Caroline Morrison.
She is survived by her children Debra Parker (Edward), Kathy Mabee, and Ken Nunley (Sue); her grandchildren Joshua Nunley, Tawnya Ferdolage, Justin Mabee, Barbie Mabee, Heather Uccello, Katherine Salyers, and Danielle Comer; and many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Melba moved to California in 1951. In 1990, she returned to Mansfield, Arkansas, where she lived for 34 years before she moved back to California in 2024.
She loved flowers, especially roses, and enjoyed playing Canasta and dominoes. A devoted sports fan, she faithfully followed the Dodgers and the Lakers, and the Arkansas Razorbacks. She spent many evenings at Little League games cheering for her sons and helped manage her daughters’ softball team, the Hurley Birds.
Melba was a dedicated mother who loved her children deeply and worked to raise them to respect others, work hard, and, above all, be kind. She will be missed sorely but her love will live on.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.