Melinda Ann Tebbetts McCardle

It is with heavy hearts and sadness that we announce the passing of Melinda Ann Tebbetts McCardle, who departed this world on July 17, 2026, after a short battle with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Born on January 26, 1946, in New Iberia, Louisiana. She graduated from New Iberia High School at the tender age of 16. Melinda met and married her husband Jimmie Lewis McCardle in 1965. They moved to Jimmie’s hometown in Brooklyn, MS raising a family and residing there most of their lives. Melinda was the youngest daughter of Chloe Cleo Watson Tebbetts and Gerald Edmund Tebbetts. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 52 years, Jimmie Lewis McCardle, her parents, her sister Rebecca Gryczko, her great-grandson Brandon Murrah, and her grandson-in-law Bo Dickerson. Melinda is survived by her sister-in-law, Joyce Lumpkin. Children D’Lynne Jenkins (John), Terrie Mixon (Mitchell), Arty McCardle (Connie) Grandchildren Kishia Sharp (Josh), Kenneth Jenkins, Anna Jenkins, Scott Jenkins (Ginifer), Michael Mixon (Whitney), Carrina Dickerson, Erica Hilbun (Charlie), JD Mixon (DeAnna), Jed McCardle (Hayley), Trannie Tucker (JC). Great grandchildren Brantley, Kamden, Gracie, Madison, Sawyer, JR, Weston, Trinity, Raife, Brandon, Hannah, James, Neely, Annely, Ellie, Lily, James Reed, Avery Mae. For 60 years, Melinda was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Brooklyn. Her faith and family was the cornerstone of her life, and she joyfully shared her love for God by teaching and directing vacation Bible school for many years. Her presence in the church community was one of steadfast dedication. Melinda was a woman of many talents and interests. She found great joy in yard sale shopping with her best friend, Mary Lou Wardle and spending every last dime of mad money she had. She was talented at arts and crafts. Her homemade Christmas ornaments given to her family each year was often the highlight of Christmas morning. She crocheted most all of her family ,afghans and of this she was very proud. She worked for Forrest County Agricultural High School in the cafeteria, and was known as the Blessed Day lady. She held many different jobs throughout the years touching many lives. A tradition of hers was to read the Christmas story from the Bible every Christmas morning. Known for her loud voice and carefree attitude, Melinda believed in being yourself without frills. She was the first to offer help, even if it meant going without herself. Her lighthearted nature and belief in enjoying life to the fullest made her a cherished friend and loved one. Melinda was a true champion for others, slow to judge and quick to defend anyone. A service to celebrate Melinda's life will be held on July 21, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Carnes, located at 441 Fairley Road, Lumberton, Mississippi, 39455. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Kolon Kendrick for his special (wink) support, to the compassionate staff at Forrest General Hospital for their care, and to the First Baptist Church of Carnes for hosting the services and offering unwavering love and prayers. Melinda Ann Tebbetts McCardle will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched. Her warmth, spirit, and unwavering love will continue to inspire us all.