LELAND — Melba Jean Wiles, age 70, of Leland, North Carolina passed away peacefully with her loved ones by her side on September 2, 2023, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 70. Melba was born on March 1, 1953, in Milledgeville, Georgia. Throughout her life, she was a woman of many talents and pursued various careers.
She was a strong and independent woman Melba’s true passion lay in her unconditional love for her family. She loved them with her entire being and made it her mission to ensure that everyone in her life was taken care of. Melba had a heart of gold and never hesitated to offer a helping hand to those in need. She never met a stranger and would freely give or provide a room to anyone who required assistance.
One of Melba’s simple pleasures in life was indulging in the all-you-can-eat buffet for crab legs. She also had a fondness for thrift stores and enjoyed browsing through them, always on the lookout for hidden treasures. Melba cherished her coffee breaks, savoring those moments with a warm cup in hand.
Melba leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. She is survived by her daughter, Christy Smith, and husband Kan of Wallace, NC, as well as her son, Curtis Porter of Estill, SC. Melba’s siblings, Helen Holdeen and husband Bill of Savannah, GA, Donnie Callahan of Dublin, GA, Kenneth (Tony) Smith of Brazil, and Amy Callahan of Savannah, GA, also mourn her passing.
In addition to her immediate family, Melba is remembered by her four grandchildren, Brittney Nichole Shumpert, Patience Victoria Altman and husband Ryan, Amber Marie Horry, and Abigail Parker. She is also survived by her two great-grandchildren, London Shumpert and A J Smith. Melba had numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends, including her close companions Darlene Wright, Deloris Gutherie, and Margaret Covington.
Melba was preceded in death by her mother, Margret Herringdine, her father, James Callahan, and her brother, Ronnie J. Callahan. While Melba’s life may not have been marked by notable achievements or memberships in organizations, her impact on the lives of those around her was immeasurable.
A celebration of Melba Jean Wiles’ life will be held at a later date, allowing all who loved and cherished her to come together and honor her memory. Melba’s genuine kindness, selflessness, and unwavering love will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but always remembered as a beacon of light in our lives.
