Melba Faye Blocker, a cherished longtime resident of Dallas, Texas, peacefully left us on August
13, 2025, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loved ones, at the age of 76. Her journey
began on January 31, 1949, in Waco, Texas, where she was born to her beloved parents, L.C.
Rauls and Iresia Rauls. As the second of three sisters, Melba grew up in a close-knit family, filled
with love and support. Her early life was marked by the strong values and principles instilled by
her parents, which shaped her into the remarkable woman she became.

From a tender age, Melba embarked on her lifelong journey of faith when she accepted Christ as
her Savior at New Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Waco. This pivotal moment laid the foundation for
a life dedicated to spiritual growth, community service, and unwavering devotion to her beliefs.
Throughout her life, her faith remained a guiding light, influencing her actions and interactions
with everyone around her.

A dedicated and stellar student, Melba pursued excellence in her academics with great passion.
She graduated with high honors from J.P. Moore High School in 1967, an achievement that
reflected her hard work and intellect. Her involvement as the editor of the school newspaper and
a member of the school choir showcased her leadership qualities and love for music. These roles
allowed her to express her creativity and commitment to her school community.

Following high school, Melba continued her educational journey at McLennan Community
College in Waco, where she earned an associate degree in Accounting. Her academic achievements
were a testament to her diligence and determination to succeed. Armed with her degree, Melba
embarked on a career with the Social Security Administration, a path that showcased her passion
for serving others. Over an impressive span of 32 years, she worked with utmost diligence and
professionalism, leaving an enduring mark on her colleagues and the countless individuals she
served.

In 1975, Melba became an integral part of Concord Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. Her
involvement in the church community was profound and multifaceted, reflecting her deep love for
worship and fellowship. She took great joy in singing with the choir, contributing her melodious
voice to the church's worship services. Additionally, her participation in the Nursing Home
Ministry and active involvement in her Growth Group and Sunday school class emphasized her
commitment to nurturing her faith and contributing to her community.

Melba's life was a true reflection of her faith, love for music, and dedication to serving others.
Her warm and generous spirit touched the lives of many, and her legacy is evident in the hearts
of those she leaves behind. Melba is survived by her beloved daughter, Iris (Buffy) Blocker, and
her cherished grandson, Anthony Gibson. Her great-grandchildren, Abigail Gibson, Ari Gibson,
Anthony Gibson Jr., and Alexander Gibson, continue to carry the torch of her love and values.
She also leaves behind a loving extended family of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews,
and dear friends who were truly blessed to know her and be part of her life.

Preceded in death by her loving parents, L.C. Rauls and Iresia Rauls, and her cherished sisters,
Helen R. Hunter and Gloria A. Jackson, Melba now rests in eternal peace, reunited with her loved
ones who have gone before her. Her life is a testament to her unwavering faith, relentless hard
work, and boundless love. Those who knew her will forever remember her warmth, kindness,
and the impeccable example she set for her family, friends, and community. Her memory will be
cherished and her legacy honored by all who were fortunate enough to know her.