Nelda K. Melvin

Nelda Karen Melvin, 87, of Soldier, KS, passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at her grandson’s home in Onaga. She was born April 21, 1939 in Corning, KS, the daughter of Leland Lyle and Donna Audrey (Clem) Steele.

Nelda graduated from Corning High School in 1957. She was a lifelong farm wife, a cook for Onaga Community Hospital for many years and later helped care for patients at their home.

She was a member of Corning Trinity United Methodist Church and the YL Club of Soldier and Corning.

Nelda was a devoted wife, mother and grandma. She enjoyed watching her hummingbirds, cardinals, fishing and cooking for her family.

Nelda married Lyle Henry Melvin on February 9, 1958 in Corning, KS. They celebrated over 68 years of marriage.

To this union, their son, Kenneth Lyle Melvin was born; he preceded them in death on October 8, 2023. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Leland and Donna Steele and infant great-granddaughter, Timberlee Faye Melvin on June 23, 2026.

Survivors include her 3 grandsons, Steven Lyle Melvin (Cammie) of Randolph, KS, Jeremy Lee Melvin (Emily) of Soldier, KS and Brendan Lane Melvin (Bailey Baker) of Topeka, KS; 4 great-grandchildren, Hannah Elizabeth, Henry Dean, Jackson Lyle and Hayslee Jane Melvin; daughter-in-law, Denise L. Melvin of Onaga, KS and sister, Norma Baxter of Holton. KS.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at America City Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to Steven Melvin designated for headstone restoration at America City Cemetery c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.