Melba D. Jackson passed on Thursday, November 3, 2022, in her home. She was born on December 7, 1927, in the City of Norfolk, Virginia. After serving as a volunteer at Robert Gatewood Elementary School, she was later hired as a cafeteria worker. She dedicated her life to service, and she retired from the Child Nutrition Department of Norfolk Public School after 32 years.

Melba was a lifelong member of New Central Baptist Church. She served faithfully in various ministries, including the Ruby Westbrook Missionary Ministry, Usher Ministry, Music Ministry, Hospitality Ministry, Youth Ministry, and Deaconess Ministry. Additionally, she was a member of Camelia Social and Savings Club, and Berkley Lodge #12.

Melba was predeceased in death by her parents Irma Riddick and John Henry Banks; son, Quentin; brother, Gene Riddick; and sisters Rebecca Clark, Constance Exhem, and Muriel Cowell.

Melba is survived by her husband of 74 years, Ernest Jackson. They shared six children together: Eric (Karen), Donald Sr. (LaGail), Ronald, Keith (Ella), Felix Sr., Quentin. She had 12 grandchildren, a goddaughter Willie Anderson, and a host of great grandchildren, family members, and friends.

A funeral service will be 12pm Saturday, November 12, 2022 at New Central Baptist Church, 700 Walker Avenue, Norfolk. Interment will follow at Roosevelt Memoial Park. Viewing will be held from 2pm until 5pm  Friday, November 11, 2022 at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake.

You can join the service livestream at: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/2205646606