Melva Jean Stradley, a resident of Ballwin, Missouri passed away Wednesday, July 22, 2026, in St. Louis County due to natural causes. Melva was born September 2, 1935, in Mountain Grove to Lester and Adnes (Ecton) Elliott and was 90 years old.
Melva attended the American School in Chicago, Illinois and graduated on April 19, 1957. However, she earlier met the love of her life, Warren Lee Stradley, and the two were married on October 31, 1953 in West Plains, Missouri. To this union, one son was born. She had many enjoyments in her life which included doing genealogy, going to estate sales, collecting antiques, doing puzzles, and reading. However, her greatest joy was spending time with her family. She will be greatly missed by all who loved and knew her.
Melva was preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Adnes; her husband, Warren; two brothers, one sister, and one granddaughter.
She is survived by her son, Terry A. Stradley; granddaughters, Ann Marie Underwood and Nicole Butler; three great-grandchildren, Ziggy and Zoe Underwood, and Alexis Kramer. She is further survived by five great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Carl Elliott; two sisters, Nina Faye Crewse and Ina May Cunningham; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service for Melva will be held Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Willow Springs City Cemetery with Pastor Dennis Walton officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Willow Funeral Home, LLC. Online condolences may be left at www.willowspringsfuneralhome.com
