Melba Hawn

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Melba Hawn of Dothan, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the age of 101.

Born December 10, 1924, in Dothan, Melba was one of ten children born to Jim and Clara Barton. Throughout her long and meaningful life, she was guided by faith, strengthened by hard work, and devoted to the people she loved.

At 18, Melba met James Mosely at Max’s Grill in Dothan. They married two years later in Marianna, Florida, beginning a 35-year marriage and a life shaped by his 22 years of service in the United States Air Force. Along the way, they welcomed their daughter, JoAnn. Their travels took them to Texas, Maine, Michigan, Florida, Alabama, Germany, and the Philippines.

After James’s passing, Melba continued to serve others. She became director of the Taylor Senior Center, a position she held for 20 years. During that time she met James Hawn, and they shared ten years of marriage before his passing. In recognition of her dedication to older adults, Melba was inducted into the Hall of Fame for Alabama Senior Centers in 2002.

Faith was a steady source of comfort throughout Melba’s life. She was an active member of Tabernacle Methodist Church in Dothan, and her favorite verse was Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

She found joy in jigsaw puzzles, movies, sewing, and bowling, and in the companionship and kindness of those around her. Above all, Melba treasured her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Clara Barton; her husbands, James Mosely and James Hawn; and her beloved daughter, JoAnn Closson.

She is survived by her grandchildren, Chris Closson (Holli) and Mike Closson (Deanna); her great-grandchildren, Abbey Morris (Dakota), Chandler Closson, Joshua Closson, and Benjamin Closson; her great-great-grandchildren, Miller Morris and Margo Morris; and many other relatives and friends.

Melba leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, faith, perseverance, and service. Her life touched generations, and she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Whitehall Assisted Living and Dayspring Hospice for the compassionate care they gave Melba, and to her loving church family at Tabernacle Methodist Church for their prayers, friendship, and support.

Visitation will be held Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Tabernacle Methodist Church in Dothan, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Memory Hill Cemetery.