Melba Ann Thompson, 96, of Spencerville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 10, 2025 at Roselawn Manor in Spencerville.

Melba was born on May 3, 1929 in Ft. Wayne, IN to the late Maurice Jay and Gertrude Ida (Wilson) Hoover. Growing up in Ft. Wayne, Melba was a graduate of Southside High School in 1947. On September 30, 1950, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, Ralph Merle Thompson and together they had three children. Ralph passed away in 2013. Melba and Ralph co-owned and operated the bowling alley, Lyn-Lee Lanes in Spencerville and after they sold their ownership, she continued to work there into her 80's.

She loved animals, bowling, and was a member of the Athletic Boosters. Most of all Melba loved going to her kids and grandkids ball games and activities. She was a complete people person and always had a smile for everyone she met.

Melba is survived by her children, Jeffrey B. (Beverly) Thompson of Decatur, AL, Denice K. Hudson of Cridersville, Mark E. (Jami) Thompson of Elida; seven grandchildren, Kelli Thompson of Decatur, AL, Brian (Elea) Thompson of Boulder, CO, Jennifer (Derek) Farley of Cridersville, Jeremy (Jayda) Hudson of Lima, Josh (Kara) Thompson of Celina, Matt (Lindsay) Thompson of Lima, and Taylor (Peter Rousseau) Thompson of Frederick, MD; twelve great grandchildren; and one brother, William "Bill" Hoover of Ft. Wayne, IN. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; two siblings, Harold (Dorothy) Hoover and Glenna Wolcott; sister-in-law, Nina Hoover; and son-in-law, Timothy Hudson.

There will be a gathering of family and friends from 11:00-1:00 p.m. followed by her memorial service at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville with Chaplain Mark Lovely officiating. Burial will take place following the service at Spencerville Cemetery. Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville is caring for Melba and her family. In honor of Melba, preferred memorials may be given to the Roselawn Activity Fund or Legacy Hospice.