Melba Ann Bandy

Melba Ann Vance Bandy was born in Birmingham, Alabama on June 26, 1941, and passed away surrounded by her children and grandchildren on January 7, 2024, in Woodstock, Alabama. She was proceeded in death by her parents, Ernest William Vance and Jeff and Gertrude Ryan, her sister, Peggy Short, her brother, William Cherry, her husband of 54 years, Richard J. Bandy, her infant son Baby Bandy, her son Richard R. Bandy, and her great-grandson, Ellison Mitchell. She is survived by her children Edwin Bandy (Kelly), Audrey Kennedy (Spencer), John Bandy, Elizabeth Fisher, Peggy Vick (Jason), her daughter-in-law, Prudence Bandy, her brother, Jesse Vance, her niece, Debbie O’Donnell, a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and her beloved dachshund, Zeke. Melba was a caregiver her entire life—as a daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, and medical professional. She never hesitated to help anyone in need, often opening her home to friends and family who needed a place to stay. She began her medical career as a nurse’s aide, before going to college to earn a degree as an LPN and later earning an RN degree. After a remarkable 50-year career in the medical field, she retired from UAB at the age of 72. Every time she would encounter someone who knew her professionally, he/she would brag on “Bandy,” as she was known at work, for being a phenomenal nurse and mentor. She was very passionate about nursing and the patients in her care. As much as she loved nursing, she said the best job she ever had was being a mother. She didn’t have hobbies or many friends because the thing that brought her the most enjoyment was taking care of her family. Whether it was cooking a meal, helping to fix a problem, or slipping you a little cash, she wanted nothing more than to enhance the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a great Mom and Nanny. Melba was well known for her fiery personality and strong opinions. She was fiercely independent, strong willed, hardworking, and intelligent. She could soothe a crying baby with ease and cook a piece of fried chicken to absolute perfection. She loved politics, butter beans with cornbread, shoes, yellow roses, good music, playing cards, crossword puzzles, lemon pie, gadgets of all kinds, margaritas, and lipstick. A few of her favorite phrases were, “I wouldn’t vote for him/her for dog catcher!” “If you don’t want the truth, don’t ask!” “A hard head makes for a soft behind!” “You lay down with dogs, you get up with fleas!” “Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.” Along with her passion for her family and her profession, she was also passionate about equality, women’s rights, animal rights, protecting the environment, and Alabama football. Although her love, legacy, and spirit will continue to shine through her family, there will be an emptiness within them that will always remain. There will never be another one like her. She will be greatly missed. There will be a private family celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to West Blocton High School in her memory. Mail donations to WBHS ATTN: Carla Hubbard 4734 Truman Aldridge West Blocton, Alabama 35184 Note that the donation is for Melba Bandy Nursing Scholarship

Melba Ann Bandy

June 26, 1941 - January 7, 2024