MRS. MELBA JO FORREST was born in St. Louis, MO on September 25, 1945 to Nobel Carpenter and Theresa Jennings. She was the fourth born child to Theresa.
Growing up, Melba enjoyed reading and education. She attended Hadley Vocational-Technical High School and after graduation, she attended Forest Park Community College to study Home Economics. She later used those skills to work as a seamstress for over 35 years I Passionate about the work that she created, Melba spent her last 6 years in the industry working at Angelica Uniform.
After the company was sold, she decided to return to school at the age of 55 to pursue a degree as a medical assistant at Sanford-Brown College. Not only did she graduate as the class valedictorian, but she also graduated as the only student in her class with a perfect attendance record.
On January 17, 1976, Melba was united in holy matrimony with Willie Frank Forrest. From this union, their two children, Tennille and Frank Forrest II, were born.
Melba's creativity overflowed throughout the home as she enjoyed making beautiful garments for herself, her husband, her children and others. Her talents were limitless as she was also an exceptional bowler that earned many trophies in her earlier years. Besides bowling and sewing, Melba enjoyed art, music and spending time with her loved ones.
She was the epitome of love and strength! Melba was a natural born nurturer. Combining her medical knowledge and love for helping others, she worked as an in-home medical assistant for disabled and mentally challenged adults. She spent her last working years caring for elderly clients at Continuum Healthcare.
Melba joins her parents, husband, two sisters, Martha F. Flanigan, Brenda M. Carpenter, and brother, John A Carpenter, in death. She leaves to cherish her wonderful memories: one daughter, Tennille Theresa Forrest; one son, Frank Forrest II; three grandsons, Anthony Frank Forrest, Brayden Frank Forrest and Kingston Isaiyah Forrest; two brothers, Hillard Dean Carpenter Qoyce) and Michael Jones Qoaquinta); sisters-in-law, Shirley Carpenter, Emma Helm, Patricia Ghoston and Lavon Loggins; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished friends.
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