Melba Kay Paul

Melba Kay Paul, 79, of Oriental, NC passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, at Grantsbrook Nursing & Rehab Center.

Born with a strong spirit and a heart full of faith, Melba lived a life rooted in her deep Christian beliefs and unwavering devotion to her family. She was known for her warmth, her work ethic, and a “spicy” personality that endeared her to all who knew and loved her.

Melba began her professional career as a licensed insurance agent in Richmond, Virginia. After moving to North Carolina, she worked with contractors at TexasGulf, now Nutrien, contributing her talents to Carolina Crane and Roberts Welding. Never one to shy away from hard work, Melba later founded her own successful cleaning business, Clean Sweep, which she proudly operated for 30 years.

In her retirement years, Melba found great joy working alongside her husband at Paul’s Produce. Summers at the produce stand became some of her most cherished times – surrounded by her grandchildren, greeting friends and strangers alike, and sharing conversations that reflected her vibrant and welcoming nature.

Melba was preceded in death by her mother, Doris Grimsley; her father, Otis Kenneth Conklin; and her sister, Laura Gentry.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in her husband of 48 years, David A. Paul; daughters, Asheley Young (Gene) and Lee Morgan (Paul); brother, Ronnie Conklin; seven grandchildren, Kimber, Kaleb, Kolby, Kamden, Taylor, Kylie, and Jackson; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A visitation will be held Sunday, April 26th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Daniels-Sadler Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hospice of Pamlico, PO Box 6, Bayboro, NC 28515.