Melba Joyce Pearce
Melba Joyce Jones Pearce, age 84, entered her eternal home on Monday, December 29, 2025, at UNC Johnston Health Hospital in Smithfield, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 30, 1941, in Johnston County, she was the daughter of the late Fred E. Jones and Bettie Price Jones. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, William W. Pearce and her brothers, Gene Jones & Marion Barwich.
For many years, Melba was a faithful member of Elizabeth United Methodist Church in Smithfield. In recent years, she attended Sardis Baptist Church of Smithfield. She was a loving and caring Christian woman who was known for her gentle spirit and deep compassion for others.
Melba had a special love for children, both her own and those entrusted to her care. She operated a childcare service in her home for many years, touching the lives of countless families. She was also well known for her love of animals of all kinds, believing they should be sheltered and well cared for—especially her beloved cat, Mittens.
Some of Melba’s favorite pastimes included sitting on her front porch, reading, spending time with her family and grandchildren, and enjoying her weekly luncheons with her dear friend, Mrs. Ethelene Brown.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel of Parrish Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Melba will be laid to rest beside her husband at Elizabeth United Methodist Church Cemetery.
She is survived by her daughters: Jeannie Evans (Dennis) of Smithfield, Cindy Stephenson (Jeff) of Pine Level, and Amy Althaus (Kenny) of Princeton; her sister, Sandra Little (Daniel) of Smithfield; grandchildren Blake Evans, Brittany Stephenson, Matthew Evans, Brad Stephenson, Cody Althaus, and Kaelyn Althaus; 12 great-grandchildren; many loving nieces and nephews; and her precious cat, Mittens.
Melba will be greatly missed by her family and her many friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA of Raleigh at 200 Petfinder Ln, Raleigh, NC 27603, or to Sardis Baptist Church, 5444 Brogden Road, Smithfield, NC 27577.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.parrishfh.com
