Melba Barnes Hillis, 94, a McMinnville resident and Warren County native, was born Nov. 13, 1922 and died June 21 in NHC Healthcare of McMinnville following an extended illness.
She was a homemaker, retired cook from Irving College School, lifelong member of Armstrong Church of Christ and daughter of the late Wince and Ruby Ware Barnes. Mrs. Hillis was married July 1, 1939 to Clinton Pierce Hillis, who preceded her in death on Sept. 28, 1992. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by grandson-in-law, William Brewer.
Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Brenda and Jimmy Blocker of McMinnville; two sons and daughter-in-law, Barry Clinton Hillis and Bernie Pierce and Melba Hillis, all of McMinnville; eight grandchildren and spouses, Lisha Cotten, Sherry and Stan Jacobs, Steve and Sharla Hillis, Dana and Monte Mullican, Monica Brewer and Leann Hillis, all of McMinnville, Angie and Tim Basso of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Andrea Bruno of Nashville; 12 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; several nephews; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and several great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.
Funeral service was held Thursday, June 22, at High’s Chapel with Steve Hillis officiating. Interment followed at Hebron Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Armstrong Church of Christ.
High Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.