Melba Jean Liberty, a cherished resident of Green River, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 4th, 2026, at the age of 88. Born in Laramie on January 11th, 1938, she was the beloved daughter of Elmo Hammond and Ruby Glasscock.
In 1956, Melba married the love of her life, Robert Liberty, in her hometown of Laramie. Their union, which lasted until Robert’s passing in 2011, was a testament to enduring love and companionship.
Melba’s life was one filled with love, dedication, and joy as a devoted homemaker. She attended schools in Bosler and Laramie before graduating from Laramie High School in 1956. Those who knew her cherished her warmth and kindness, as well as her delight in simple pleasures such as coloring, solving word search puzzles, and engaging in lively games of board games and card games, including canasta and pinochle. In her youth, she enjoyed playing in her high school band, a testament to her diverse interests.
Her memory will continue to be treasured by her loving family, including her two sons, Michael and Cherri Liberty of Green River, and David and Casey Liberty of Rapid City, South Dakota; her daughter, Roberta and Randy Kniffin of Greeley, Colorado; and her two sisters, Viola and Gary Moats of Laramie, and Ramona Modrell of Oregon. Melba was also blessed with nine grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Melba was preceded in death by her parents, Elmo and Ruby Hammond; her dear husband, Robert Liberty; and her sister, Louise King.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11th, 2026, at the Union Congregational Church, UCC, located at 350 Mansface Street, Green River. Friends and family are welcome to call one hour prior to the services. Following the funeral, interment will take place at Riverview Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.
The family respectfully requests donations in Melba’s memory be made to Hospice of Sweetwater County, 333 Broadway Street, Suite 220, Rock Springs.
Melba Jean Liberty’s warm spirit, love for family, and zest for life will remain forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her. Those wishing to offer condolences may do so at www.vasefuneralhomes.com.
