Melba Shea Richards Asby, 70, of Franklin, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, after a period of declining health.

Born in Okaloosa County, FL, she was the daughter of the late Edward Charles and Alberta Louise Bates Richards. In addition to her parents, Melba was preceded in death by her husband, Steven Chad Asby; brother, Dean Richards; and a sister, Charlotte Lee. She enjoyed being outdoors, fishing and camping.

Melba is survived by her four children, Diana Watts of Franklin, NC, Debra Hubbard (Shad) of Cleveland, TN, Cindy Watts of Franklin, NC, and Steven Watts of Franklin, NC; two stepchildren, Steven Asby of Greenville, NC and Jennifer Asby of Ayden, NC; three siblings, Sue Parker, Karen Goss, and Ronnie Richards, all of FL. Also surviving are 17 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and numerous other family members.

A graveside service will be at 11:30 on Saturday, September 30 at Iotla Baptist Church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 10am to 11am at Macon Funeral Home prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Iotla Baptist Church cemetery fund.

Online condolences can be left at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.