Melba Gorman White was born February 14, 1937 to Clifton Wade and Carmon Neal Gorman of Tullos, Louisiana. After high school, she completed business school in Baton Rouge. She then worked for the Louisiana Forestry Commission in Olla where she met her husband, Lonnie White. Melba and Lonnie moved to Monroe in 1959 and brought up their three children there. In 1975, Melba started work at Ira's, a clothing store, and retired as manager in 2000.

Melba was devoted to her family and was always there to provide love and support. She will be deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother, Neal Gorman. She is survived by her children, Cheryl Arvidson (Chuck), John White (Vicki), and Margaret Kilcrease. Grandchildren are Elise Oakes, Alex Kilcrease, Marisa Kilcrease, Taylor Poche, Allie White, and Charles Arvidson; great-grandchildren, Liam and Eden Oakes.

Our family would like to express our love and appreciation to our mother's long-time friends, Carolyn Caldwell, Joyce Grobe, and Genevieve McDuff.