Melba Oleta Hass

Melba Oleta Hass, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, went peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior on August 5, 2025, at her home in Salina, Oklahoma where she was born on October 3, 1935. Melba was a lifetime resident of Salina, and throughout her years, she touched the lives of many with her caring and loving spirit. As a devoted homemaker, Melba found joy in creating a warm and inviting home, often filled with the laughter and love of family and friends. She cherished the times spent hosting large dinners, where no one ever left hungry or without a smile. Her culinary talents extended beyond just family meals—Melba also served as a school cook at Salina and Wickliffe, bringing nourishment and care to the children in her community. In addition to her work in the kitchen, Melba was a beauty shop owner and operator, sharing her skills and beauty knowledge with countless women throughout the years. Her passion for self-care and appearance was only rivaled by her commitment to her church, where she was a devoted member of Indian Free Holiness Church for over 40 years. She embraced her role as a Sunday school teacher and participated in vacation Bible study, nurturing the faith of younger generations with her boundless love and wisdom. Melba's interests spanned from flower gardening, where she cultivated beautiful blooms that mirrored her vibrant personality, to her unwavering dedication to her church community. She enjoyed cake decorating and made numerous wedding cakes for family and friends. She found fulfillment in both her hobbies and the relationships she nurtured throughout her life. Melba Oleta Hass will be deeply missed, but her essence will continue to radiate through the lives she touched so dearly. Most of all, she has been a rock for her family and exemplified the true meaning of unconditional love. 

She leaves behind her devoted husband, Jerry Hass, and her three daughters: Anita Hass of Salina, Melisa Stricklen and her husband, Kenny, of Pryor, and Teresa Hass, daughter-in-law of Owasso. Melba's legacy continues through her grandchildren: Valarie Taylor and Barry Reed; Matt and Emily Taylor; Jake and Stephanie Hass; Josh and Aimee Hass; Julio and Colbi Hass; Christopher and Karen Hass; Chelsey and Beau Beathard; Kody and Kate Conley; Seth Stricklen; Shaye and Dillon Manchell; and Kaci and Maddie Stricklen; along with cherished great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy, Rhett, Blair, Emily, Taylor, Gunner, Maverick, Charlie, Myles, Fynn, Gentry, Thomas, Michael, Wanda, Aiden, Lexi, Brixey, Scarlett, Landon, Emersyn, Sophie, Paislee, Meredith, Eleanor, Weston. Melba is also survived by her dear sister, Maxine Holz, who shared many memories with her throughout their lives. She was preceded in death by her son, Bryant Hass; brothers Emery and J.B. Ward; sister Louise Dawley; and her great-grandchildren, Zachary and Addison, who will forever hold a special place in her heart.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Melba's extraordinary life and the remarkable legacy she leaves behind will be held at 10:00 a.m., August 16, 2025, at Ross - Mayes Cemetery in Salina, Oklahoma. To leave her family a message, please visit her Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com.