Melba Rose Anastopoulos was born April 6, 1929, in Wichita Falls, Texas, and went to be with the Lord on May 6, 2026.

The daughter of Lillie and Everett Hughes, Melba worked as a Southwestern Bell operator before meeting the love of her life, Billy "Bill" Anastopoulos. They married on November 2, 1947, and shared 69 wonderful years together, raising three children: Mary, Billy, and Ernest.

Melba devoted countless hours volunteering with the Wichita Falls Humane Society, where she participated in bake sales and fun runs to support animals she dearly loved. She also volunteered with the Salvation Army, helping secure names for Christmas assistance and delivering presents to families in need. As a proud member of the AARP #3024 committee, she enjoyed traveling to numerous destinations and making lifelong memories along the way.

Melba was a faithful member of Highland Heights Christian Church until its closing, after which she became a devoted member of First Christian Church of Wichita Falls, where her faith remained an important part of her life.

She had a deep love for cooking and never let anyone leave her home hungry, especially her grandchildren, who always found comfort in her kitchen. Every meal she prepared was made with love, warmth and care.

Melba was preceded in death by her husband, Billy "Bill" Anastopoulos; grandson, Christopher Anastopoulos; and great-grandson, Tyler Anastopoulos.

She is survived by her children: Mary Tanner and husband Bill Tanner of Wichita Falls, Texas; Billy Anastopoulos and wife Glenda of Haughton, Louisiana; and Ernest Anastopoulos and wife Terri of Wichita Falls, Texas. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and her beloved companion, Coco.

Melba's kindness, generosity, and love for family, friends, and animals will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Joint services for Bill and Melba will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 22, at First Christian Church. Interment will follow at Rosemont Cemetery under the direction of Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home.

For those desiring, memorial donations may be made to Hospice, 4909 Johnson Road, Wichita Falls, Texas 76310.