Melba Mavourneen Carlisle Stroud, aged 93, of Athens, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025, at Limestone Health and Rehab. Born on June 23rd, 1932, in Cullman, she was the daughter of Oscar D. Carlisle and Flora Brooks Carlisle.
Mrs. Stroud leaves behind a loving family, including her devoted husband Wesley D. Stroud, Sr. Her legacy continues through her children: Wesley D. Stroud, Jr.; Jerry C. Stroud and his wife Deborah; and Nina Stroud Smith and her husband Dennis. She was a cherished grandmother to Rebekah S. Gleason (Scott), Samuel C. Stroud (Annette), Megan K. Stroud, Gina S. Garrett (Travis), and Carla K. S. Keathley (Chad). Her great-grandchildren, Daniel, Micah, and Eli Gleason; Braydon and Addie Stroud, Annie and Dean Garrett; and Roy and Abigail Keathley, will carry forward her memory. She is also survived by her brother Douglas Carlisle, along with several nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Stroud was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson Allen W. Stroud II, her brothers Donald Carlisle and Benny Carlisle, and her sister Murleen Melvin.
Friends and family are invited to honor Mrs. Stroud’s memory during the visitation at Sardis Springs Baptist Church on Sunday, July 27th, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:50 PM. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM, officiated by Tim Keenum and Dr. Scott Gleason. Interment will take place at Sardis Springs Baptist Cemetery.
Mrs. Stroud was a remarkable woman who dedicated 45 years of her life to the Limestone County School System as a substitute teacher and aide. Her passion for education touched many lives. In her leisure, she found joy in bird watching and gardening, activities that brought her peace and happiness. Her warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Mrs. Stroud dearly loved being a homemaker, a role she embraced with open arms and a full heart. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and comfort, a place where her family felt cherished and secure.
Beyond her dedication to her family, Mrs. Stroud’s heart was devoted to serving the Lord. Her passion for teaching and sharing her faith was exemplified in her role as a Sunday School teacher, a position she held for over 50 years. Through her teaching, she touched countless lives, imparting wisdom and kindness to generations of students. Her lessons went beyond the classroom, as she taught by example what it meant to live a life of faith and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Mrs. Stroud’s memory to Hospice of Limestone County.
