SALINA – Melba Kay (Banninger) Matthews, 82, passed away Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at Smoky Hill Health and Rehabilitation. She was born on July 31, 1939 in Tescott, KS to Fred and Ruth (Wilson) Banninger. She graduated from Tescott High School in 1957. Melba went on to attend Brown Mackie College in Salina and graduated with a business degree.

Melba was united in marriage to Richard E. Matthews at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Tescott. The couple established their home together in Salina and became members of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Salina. This union was blessed with two children, Julie and Mitch.

Melba worked for Holsum Bakery before becoming a homemaker. She then proceeded to work for Beall Ladymon, Stage and Ash Enterprises.

Her pride and joy was her family. She loved attending activities and events of her grandchildren, Madi, Cooper and Hope.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her husband, Richard of Salina; a daughter, Julie Willems and son in law Matt and granddaughter Hope of Galva, Ks; a son, Mitch and daughter in law Dallas and grandchildren Madi and Cooper of Bennington, KS.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. with family present from 5-7 p.m. Friday, February 4, 2022 at Ryan Mortuary. There will be a private family funeral service with burial in Franklin Cemetery, Tescott.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials to be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Punchin’ Out Parkinson’s of Central Kansas or Interim Healthcare Home Care and Hospice; in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth Street, Salina, KS 67401.