Funeral Information
Location:
St. Paul AME Church
Date: 07-08-2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Time: 10:00 AM
Visitation Information
Location:
St. Paul AME Church
Date:
Time:
Time:
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Obituary
Melba Jean Irwin Tinsley, age 92, of Springfield, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at the Arc at Sangamon Valley.
Born on July 18, 1932, in Quincy, Illinois, Melba was the beloved daughter of the late James Lyman B. Irwin, Sr., and Helen Margaret Irwin. She was the youngest of their children and was preceded in death by her siblings, Richard Gay, Floyce Robinson, James L. B. Irwin, Jr., and William. Though her siblings have gone before her, their memory lives on through Melba’s love and legacy, and in the hearts of her many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Melba was a proud and dedicated mother to her two sons, George Edward Tinsley III and James Michael Tinsley (Lynn), and a loving grandmother to five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She found her greatest joy in her family and held a deep commitment to their growth, success, and happiness.
Melba lived a full and meaningful life, touching the hearts of many through her long and respected career as a registered nurse and service to the community. Along with her sister-in-law, Doloris Irwin, she was a pioneer—one of the first Black students to attend and graduate from Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, breaking racial barriers and opening doors for those who would follow. Her tireless work, compassion, and professionalism made a lasting impact in the healthcare field.
Melba was very involved in her community. She was a lifelong member of the St. Paul AME Church and its Missionary Board. She was also a Sunday School teacher. In her spare time, she volunteered at the State Fair in the senior tent. She was also a Girl Scout Troop Leader. Melba was an active member of the Springfield Urban League Guild, the Foxes Social Club, and the Red Hats.
Melba enjoyed camping, playing cards, and cookouts with friends and family.
Her legacy is a living testament to the dreams of those who came before her and a shining path forward for generations yet to come. Melba’s kindness, resilience, and unwavering love for her family and friends will forever be cherished.
Born on July 18, 1932, in Quincy, Illinois, Melba was the beloved daughter of the late James Lyman B. Irwin, Sr., and Helen Margaret Irwin. She was the youngest of their children and was preceded in death by her siblings, Richard Gay, Floyce Robinson, James L. B. Irwin, Jr., and William. Though her siblings have gone before her, their memory lives on through Melba’s love and legacy, and in the hearts of her many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Melba was a proud and dedicated mother to her two sons, George Edward Tinsley III and James Michael Tinsley (Lynn), and a loving grandmother to five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She found her greatest joy in her family and held a deep commitment to their growth, success, and happiness.
Melba lived a full and meaningful life, touching the hearts of many through her long and respected career as a registered nurse and service to the community. Along with her sister-in-law, Doloris Irwin, she was a pioneer—one of the first Black students to attend and graduate from Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, breaking racial barriers and opening doors for those who would follow. Her tireless work, compassion, and professionalism made a lasting impact in the healthcare field.
Melba was very involved in her community. She was a lifelong member of the St. Paul AME Church and its Missionary Board. She was also a Sunday School teacher. In her spare time, she volunteered at the State Fair in the senior tent. She was also a Girl Scout Troop Leader. Melba was an active member of the Springfield Urban League Guild, the Foxes Social Club, and the Red Hats.
Melba enjoyed camping, playing cards, and cookouts with friends and family.
Her legacy is a living testament to the dreams of those who came before her and a shining path forward for generations yet to come. Melba’s kindness, resilience, and unwavering love for her family and friends will forever be cherished.