Melba R. (Swinney) Tracy

Melba R. (Swinney) Tracy, 94, Mooresville, passed away peacefully at home on July 22, 2024. Melba was the last surviving child of the late Charles and Myrtle (Smith) Swinney. She was born in Mooresville on November 7, 1929, and was preceded in death by her brothers, Harold, Donald, Charles, Raymond, Thomas, and Marvin Swinney; and two sisters, Estel Jones and Dorthy Clarkston. She married her loving husband, Bert Tracy on November 21, 1949, and he died on January 25, 1993. 

Melba graduated from Mooresville High School in 1943 and did clerical work at the City-County Building in Indianapolis. She was also employed for a period of time at the Small World Day Care in Mooresville. Melba, along with many Swinney relatives, was a longtime member of the Mooresville First Christian Church. Earlier in her life, she was an avid bowler, enjoyed drag racing, barrel walking, and polka dancing. An accomplished seamstress, Melba also created many beautiful quilts that are treasured by her family. Many happy memories were made at the family cabin in Spencer where everyone gathered on weekends to fish, swim, and spend time together. Melba was a talented pie baker – peanut butter and her famous butterscotch were always devoured first. Above all, Melba’s family was always cherished. She devoted much of her life caring for her grandchildren who affectionately referred to her as Mamaw. 

In addition to her parents, siblings, and Bert, she was also preceded in death by her beloved son, Rick. 

Survivors include one daughter, Rhonda (Ronald) Hawkins; grandchildren, Christa (Michael) Little and John Rosenbaum III; step grandchildren, Crystal (Albert) Hawkins-Day and Ronald Scott (Mallory) Hawkins; ten great-grandchildren; one great great-grandchild. 

Melba’s Life Celebration® Visitation and Funeral Service will be held at the Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 39 E. High Street, Mooresville. Visitation will be on Sunday, July 28, 2024, 1 to 4 p.m. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m., Monday, July 29, 2024, with burial following in White Lick Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Churches in Mission. Visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry. 

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  1. I knew Melba through her Daughter Rhonda, I just fell in love with her sweet spirit right when I met her. I knew right then that’s who her daughter took after. I didn’t know all the family but just knowing Melba definitely told me her whole family had that same sweet spirit. she was always so kind and welcoming. The beautiful smile would brighten anyone’s day. many prayers sent to Rhonda and the family. Loss is always hard but the hope of heaven is rewarding. much love to all of you.

  2. Melba is my first cousin. At one time there was about 50 first cousins. We always had 2 reunions every year. It was not unusual for there to be 200 of us at a reunion. We were all so very close. She was very special to me and I loved her very much. She was such a joy to be around.
    I will truly miss her.
    Louise Swinney Robinson

  3. So sorry to hear of her passing. She was indeed a much loved Christian lady. I enjoyed many good times in her company. Rest well!


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