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.