WILLARD — Melba Jean King Rivenbark, 78, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, Christian and God’s faithful servant, was called to her heavenly home by the Lord Friday, Feb. 23, 2018.
She was born Sept. 15, 1939, in Wilmington, the daughter of the late Quillie Jessie and Morie Faulk King. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Evelyn Millis and Vivian Stowers; and brothers Levy, Claude and Clyde King.
Melba is survived by her husband of 64 years, Billy O. Rivenbark; children, William G. Rivenbark (Janet) of Burgaw, Joey Rivenbark (Dianna) of Wallace, Frances Rivenbark of Willard, and Dr. Ken Rivenbark (John R. Roper) of Huntsville, Ala.; grandchildren, Scott Rivenbark (Sarah), Michael Rivenbark (Tiffany), Grant Rivenbark (Angela), Chris Northcott and Zachary Rivenbark (Haley); great-grandchildren, Taylor, Anna Keith, Charleigh, Cody, Keagan and Kinsley; and many extended family members and friends.
Melba’s journey on earth was a life well lived. Her years were filled with an abiding love of the Lord and her beloved family. She loved her church family at Jordan’s Chapel UMC where she had served as director of the Children’s Day Care Program. Being avid sport fans, Melba and Billy enjoyed attending Pender High Patriots games. In past years, Melba was a substitute teacher in the Pender County School System. Melba will be deeply missed by her many friends, and especially by her husband, children and grandchildren.
The family will receive friends 5 to 7 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 25, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home, Burgaw. At other times, the family will be at the home of Joey and Dianna Rivenbark, 159 Jonestown Road, Wallace. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Feb. 26, at Jordans Chapel United Methodist Church with the Rev. Bill Applewhite and the Rev. Jimmie Johnson conducting services. Private interment will be later in the week in Oleander Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401; or to a charity of your choice.
Share online condolences with the family at quinnmcgowen.com.
