Florence “Flossie” B. Melby (Wells) arrived in this world on October 19, 1918 in Waco, Texas, and departed us on October 20, 2020. During her teenage years, Flossie’s family moved to Phoenix for her mother’s health. A decision to attend beauty school in Globe, Arizona, would change her life, as that’s where she met, fell in love, then married L.E. “Earl” Melby in 1939. The couple settled in Phoenix/Scottsdale after Earl returned from World War 2, where they started and raised their family, and where Flossie remained until her passing.
While raising four children, Flossie was involved in many community and charitable causes, usually rising to the top position of the organization. Pillettes, Assistance League of Phoenix, the Saint Teresa’s Building Committee, and several neighborhood associations all benefited from her “can do, get it done” attitude. Many of her friends remarked that she was a “force of nature” and never took no for an answer, nor excuse. After her children had grown, her involvement in politics rose to a new level, and she found herself a valuable member of the constituent service teams of US Representative Eldon Rudd, then US Representative/US Senator Jon Kyle. She loved working with constituents of all backgrounds to find common good and solutions and was a master at bringing people together. Flossie continued to passionately work in politics and various charities well into her 80s. She was generous beyond belief with her time, energy, and money, and strived to leave her community a better place then she found it. If you were fortunate to call her your friend, you had the best friend in the world. Thank you to all who loved her and those she loved.
Flossie was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Earl Melby, and three beautiful children, LeAnn, Marc, and Larry Jr. Surviving her are her son, Michael, and granddaughter, Kimberly Whelan (Christopher), and three beautiful great-grandchildren: Justine, Bart, and Anna.
There will be a visitation vigil held on Monday, November 2, 2020 from 5:00 to 7:00pm at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix.
A celebration luncheon to be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at 12:00 Noon, at the community hall at Mount Claret Center, 4633 N. 54th Street in Phoenix, and all are invited.
In lieu of flowers, contributions and memorials can be made to the Mount Claret Center.
Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Dolan Leveen
Flossie was just a great person. She was loved by one and all.
May she Ret In Peace.
Love Dolan & Germaine
Dolan Leveen
May she Rest In Peace.
Rob Hanish
Flossie was one of the brightest burning candles. in the universe. This world is lucky to have had her passion, spirit, caring and drive. I can still remember watching fireworks at her house and she was worried if I was having a good time. She will be missed
Beatrice Garcia
Flossie was a great person! I was blessed to have met her as her caregiver, I will miss her very much! Flossie was so full of joy and happiness she would always sing to me she will be missed.
Molly Chapas
Flossie was a lovely, gracious woman who was always welcoming to everyone she encountered. She and my father shared the same birthday and celebrated together on many occasions. I remember fondly Earl and Flossie lighting up every room they entered. I’m sure she , Earl and my Dad are happily reunited.
Regards,
Molly McMahon Chapas
Susi Bennett
I did not have the privilege of personally knowing Flossie, but I do have the privilege of knowing and working with her son Michael. And oh what a beautiful legacy she has left! Mike is generous, kind, humble, hard working, and has a brilliant mind. Thank you Flossie for raising such an exceptional son who is, in turn, blessing the lives of so many around him, just like you did for over a century! I pray God’s comfort and encouragement for the family as you remember and celebrate the life and legacy of Flossie Melby.
My sincerest regards,
Susi Bennett
Latris & Tristan
Flossie was a graceful woman I admired. Always kind, warm and welcoming to us. The best hugs always came from her! She will be missed.
Michael Prior
I was honored to attend Flossie’s 100 year birthday party and see her wonderful smile. Flossie may rest in peace knowing she made the world a better place. All our love, Mike & Janette Prior
Mark Moore
The last of a good generation of siblings and spouses is gone. A very good one was saved until last. The death of Aunt Flossie reminds us of the losses we have all suffered. Condolence is offered to Mike as well as our respect for the caring he gave to his mother.
Catherine Cuda
Flossie had the most beautiful, positive attitude and was willing to help anyone in need. She always greeted people with her warm, loving smile. Flossie was a strong leader who worked very hard through the many organizations she belonged in order to make this world a better place, Flossie definitely lived a full, long and exemplary life. May She Rest In Peace and Happiness in the presence of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Love,
Tracy and Cathie Cuda
DORIS BERRY
Flossie would always arrive with a smile, she gave her happiness to others by just being around them. She is now with her love Earl again. We will all miss her.
My heartfelt sympathy to her family, may your beautiful memories give you support during this time of sorrow..
Doris Berry
Audrey Alderson
Dear Mike,
It was always obvious how much you loved your mother and took care of her. I am grateful she lived such a long wonderful life and no matter the age, we still grieve the loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
Denise Blommel
Flossie was a great friend to all. She and her sister-in-law, Dixie, were good friends with my Mom, Heloise Blommel. As a youngster, I saw Flossie at many GOP events. She did amazing work for Eldon Rudd.
You can be sure that she has been tasked with organizing the Angels in Heaven along with my Mom!
What a wonderful mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother as a role model!
Our best to you and your family at this time,
Denise Blommel and Don Doerres