Melva A. King, age 95, passed away Saturday, January 30, 2016 at Jordan Creek Nursing and Rehab in Springfield, Missouri. She was born October 11, 1920 to Fred and Coral Wood of Alma, Michigan.

Melva was a proud 1942 graduate of the Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey and enjoyed a long career serving as organist and music director in various churches throughout the country, most recently at St. John's Episcopal Church in Springfield, were she was awarded the distinction of Musical Director Emeritus prior to her retirement at age 90. She was actively involved in her community, a mentor to many, and inspired and assisted several young people on the path to their music careers.

Melva met her husband in Albany, New York and they were married in 1945. They spent the early years of their marriage in Schenectady, New York, San Diego, California, Ravenswood, West Virginia and retired in Waverly, Tennessee.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dana W. King in April 1990 and after moving to Springfield, her son Dana B. King in January 1991. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Terri King Price and her husband, Jim, of Springfield; two grandsons, Matthew Price of Springfield and Jason Matthews and his wife, Tanna of Hendersonville, Tennessee; three great-grandchildren, Olivia, Jada and Valerie Matthews; and a host of dear friends too numerous to mention.

A memorial of celebration for Melva's life and service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 6, 2016 at St. John's Episcopal Church in Springfield. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to St. John's Episcopal Church Department of Music or the charity of their choice.