Melba Thacker Oesterheld

 Melba Thacker Oesterheld, 94, a lifelong resident of Spotsylvania passed away peacefully on Monday, February 18, 2019 at her home surrounded by her caring family.

 Mrs. Oesterheld was a devoted member of Round Oak Baptist Church for more than 75 years, where she taught Sunday school and served in numerous capacities until her health declined. She enjoyed reading her Bible and inspirational books, bird watching, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.

 Survivors include her loving twin daughters, Janice Pennington (Art) and Melba Wood (Harry); brother Linwood Thacker and sister-in-law Della Thacker, all of Spotsylvania; uncle James Pitts of King George; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 56 years, Lewis Oesterheld; brother Frank Thacker; and parents, Elijah and Jennie Thacker.

 A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, February 22 at Round Oak Baptist Church, 15025 Pepmeier Hill Road, Woodford, VA 22580. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

 To honor her wishes and in support of her concerns for the plight of the area homeless and her love of animals, especially cats, memorials may be made to Micah Ecumenical Ministries, 1013 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 or to the Fredericksburg SPCA, 10819 Courthouse Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22408.