Elaine Brister Melling, 92, of Groves, TX. passed away July 23, 2014 at Medical Center of Southeast Texas, after a brief illness.
She was born in Davis, Oklahoma to Charlsie & Henry Brister; grew up in Palacios, TX. with her thirteen 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 4 sisters, Maggie Drawhorn of Zavalla, TX; Emily Harvey & 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 & husband Robert of Bridge City, TX; son, Michael Melling & wife Judy of Beaumont, TX; son, Christopher Melling & wife Ingrid of Ellijay, Georgia; 8 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and 5 great- great grandchildren. She had a great love of children & was deeply devoted to her family.
Funeral services will be held at Melancon’s Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H in Nederland on Sunday, July 27, 2014 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, 2014 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.