Melba J. Dalton

Melba June Dalton, affectionately known as "Nay Nay" to her grandchildren, passed away on September 11, 2026, in Morgantown, West Virginia. Born on May 7, 1941, in Blair, West Virginia, Melba's journey through life was not always an easy one. She faced her share of hardships and met them the best way she knew how-with determination, grit, and a strong will that carried her through. Though life eventually took her away from the part of West Virginia where her story began, she never forgot where she came from or the experiences that helped shape the woman she became.

Melba is survived by her loving husband of nearly 50 years, David Dalton; her beloved children, Missy Dalton, Melanie (Bobby) Davis, John (Mary) Jolliffe, and Jamie Dalton (fianceé Regan Siko); and her stepdaughter, Kristy Dalton (fiancé Bobby Wilson). Also surviving is a special friend of the family, Brent Trimble, who meant a lot to Melba and continues to care for David during this difficult time.

Melba was a proud grandmother to Jay, Vic, Vanessa, Jeff, Justin, and Jacob, and a great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; her brother, Johnny (Shirley) Crabtree, and her furry friend Willa, who was like a grandchild to her, will miss her dearly, too.

Melba was a strong-willed woman who ruled with an iron fist. She worked as a CNA for a time and later made her mark in the Morgantown area painting for several contractors, often alongside her daughters Melanie and Missy. Melba's heart was big enough to be a second mother to many nieces and nephews after losing their parents too early.

She loved to host gatherings where her laughter and care created unforgettable memories. Karaoke nights were a must, as she sweetly belted out the classics of Loretta Lynn, reminding everyone of her roots in the coal fields of Logan County.

Melba was preceded in death by her parents, George Franklin Crabtree and Esta Beatrice Smith Crabtree, and her siblings Myrtle, Mildred, and Charlie. She will also be reunited with her beloved great-grandchild, Austin Williams.

Friends and family will gather to celebrate Melba's life at the Fred Jenkins Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 16, from 6 PM to 8 PM and again on Thursday from 10 AM until the service at 11 AM. Following the service, Melba will be laid to rest at Beverly Hills Memorial Garden Cemetery in Westover, WV.

Melba's spirit, fierce love, and infectious joy will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.