The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

Elaine Brister Melling, 92, of Groves, passed away July 23, at Medical Center of Southeast Texas, after a brief illness.

She was born in Davis, Ok., to Charlsie & Henry Brister; and grew up in Palacios, TX. with her 13 siblings, and moved to Pt.Neches as a teenager. She was an artist and worked in retail sales at Drydens, Galery 546, and The Galerie. Her husband, Charles O. Melling preceded her in death.

Elaine is survived by four sisters, Maggie Drawhorn of Zavalla, Emily Harvey, and Melba McCrory of Palacios; Jean LeClair of Pearland; and one brother, L.J. Brister of Palacios. She is also survived by her daughter, Sharley Woodruff and husband Robert of Bridge City; son, Michael Melling and wife Judy of Beaumont; son, Christopher Melling and wife Ingrid of Ellijay, Ga; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren. She had a great love of children and was deeply devoted to her family.

Funeral services will be held at Melancon’s Funeral Home in Nederland on Sunday, July 27, at 2:00 p.m. with Dr. Harlan Merriam officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 26, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.