At the remarkable age of 90, Melba Mebane, a resilient woman from Texas, has bid farewell to her extensive tenure at Dillard’s department store, marking the end of an impressive 74-year career. Her unwavering dedication and unwavering work ethic have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the establishment.
Back in 1949, at the tender age of 17, Melba began her journey at Dillard’s as an elevator girl in the Tyler, Texas branch. Over the years, she gradually climbed the ranks and transitioned to the cosmetics department, where her passion for customer service and sales shone brightly. Throughout the ever-evolving landscape of the retail world, Melba’s steadfast values have remained unwavering, according to Dillard’s store manager James Saenz.
Melba’s impact on both her colleagues and customers cannot be overstated. She became an integral part of the retail store, consistently brightening the atmosphere with her infectious smile and leaving a positive impression on anyone who crossed her path. Remarkably, she never missed a day of work or called in sick, serving as a shining example of commitment and reliability.
Terry Mebane, Melba’s son, lovingly describes her as a “grinder.” She would arrive at the store between 9 and 9:15 every morning, eager to secure her parking spot well before the store’s opening at 10 am. Melba even opted for shorter lunch breaks, recognizing that customers often visited the mall during their lunch hours, ensuring she wouldn’t miss any opportunities.
As the years passed, Melba’s dedication to her craft never wavered. Even in her 70s and 80s, she continued to devote 40 hours a week to her role behind the cosmetics counter, showcasing her exceptional sales skills and inspiring her colleagues. While some viewed their job merely as a means to collect a paycheck, Melba encouraged her coworkers to see it as something more, finding joy and fulfillment in her work.
Reflecting on her remarkable journey, an elated Melba expressed her love for everyone she worked with and the genuine delight she found in going to work each day. Her impact extends beyond her immediate circle, as she has coached, taught, and trained numerous individuals to aspire to greatness, leaving an enduring legacy.
In recognition of her exceptional dedication and decades of service that exceeded all expectations, Dillard’s hosted a retirement party to honor Melba. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious “Beyond Excellence” award, a testament to her unwavering commitment and loyalty to the company. This distinguished accolade will forever grace the walls of the Tyler store, a reminder of Melba’s remarkable contributions.
Unfortunately, health issues ultimately led Melba to bid farewell to the place that had been her second home for seventy decades. Nevertheless, her unwavering dedication and profound impact did not go unnoticed. Dillard’s and its employees celebrated her extraordinary achievements, paying tribute to her immeasurable work ethic and unwavering commitment to the company.
Melba Mebane’s retirement signifies the end of an era, marking the conclusion of an awe-inspiring 74-year career that has left an indelible mark on Dillard’s and everyone fortunate enough to have crossed paths with this extraordinary woman. Her story serves as a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and a genuine love for one’s work.
