Melba Bailey Thigpen, 76, of Dublin, Georgia, passed away at the Fairview Park Hospital in
Dublin, Georgia, on June 5, 2023, after a brief illness. Melba was born January 29, 1947, in Millen, Georgia, to parents Homer Clifton Bailey and Bernice Hall Bailey. She grew up in Summertown, Georgia, surrounded by many family members in the Summertown community and always enjoyed going back there for the July 4th family reunions. Melba was a graduate of Swainsboro High School and attended Women’s College in Milledgeville.
Melba is predeceased by her parents and several special first cousins. Melba is survived by her husband Michael Thigpen, sons, Sean (Lisa) Taylor of Lawrenceville, Georgia, and Scott Taylor of Canton, Georgia. Grandchildren, Charis (Max) Shipman of Marietta, Georgia, Evan Taylor and Jack Taylor of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Briley Taylor of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Annabeth Taylor of McDonald, Tennessee. Great grandchildren, Westley and Chandler Shipman. One brother, Bob (Carol) of Dallas, Texas.
Melba had a deep faith and loved the Lord with all her heart and was a member of First Baptist Dublin Church. She was a past member of the Christian Women’s Club and the After Five Club, living out her faith. Melba was a kind soul and loved her family and friends deeply. She had a love of music and enjoyed playing the piano. She served as pianist and organist for several churches during her life and was always willing to fill in where needed. She loved flowers and always wanted her yard to reflect that. She went to great pains to make sure they were pruned and cared for, and she was a member of the garden club for several years.
Funeral services were held at First Baptist Dublin on Thursday June 8th at 11:00 with Reverend Cliff Morris and Dr. Jack Brown officiating. A private interment was held at Brinson Cemetery for the family and close friends.
Pallbearers were Jimmy Stephens, Sammy Spell, John David Bailey, Jay Bailey, Ridge Allen, and Donnie Robertson.
Melba loved flowers, but if you prefer you can make a memorial contribution to First Baptist Dublin Hands of Ruth ministry, 405 Bellevue Avenue, Dublin, GA. 31021.
Please visit www.townsendfuneralhome.com to sign the online memorial registry.
Townsend Brothers Funeral Home had charge of the arrangements.
