Melba Louise Hanson

Melba Louise (Simmons) Hanson, 83, of Braggs, Oklahoma was born on March 26, 1943, to Brook and Hazel (Arivett) Simmons, and peacefully passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in Braggs. Melba graduated from Muskogee High School and went on to pursue a rewarding career as a cosmetologist, a profession she enjoyed for many years. She enjoyed making people feel their best when they left her chair. On November 21, 1963, she married the love of her life, Wayne Hanson, and together they built a devoted and lasting marriage. She enjoyed being part of the rodeo and horse racing community and was always proud to support her husband, Wayne, a cowboy and two-time World Champion Bareback Rider. Everyone considered them the most handsome couple and were treated like 'rodeo royalty'. She loved the outdoors and could often be found relaxing on the porch, visiting with family and friends. A talented artist, Melba especially enjoyed pencil drawing and created many beautiful works. She was affectionately known by many as the best hairdresser in town, a title she carried with pride. She also treasured trips to the hills of Arkansas, where she loved spending time with her aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her pride and joy was her family, and she cherished any moment spent with her loved ones. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Melba is now reunited with her husband, Wayne Hanson; and her parents, Brook and Hazel (Arivett) Simmons. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Lisa Hanson of McAlester, OK; her son Jay Hanson and wife Amber of Braggs, OK; her grandsons, Cody Livingston of McAlester, OK, Jeremiah Phillips of Muskogee, OK, Cole Henson of Muskogee, OK, Brandt Hanson of Tulsa, OK; her granddaughters, Katelyn Phillips of Muskogee, OK, and Angelica Phillips of Braggs, OK; her great grandchildren, Masun Livingston of Fort Gibson, OK, William Hanson and Kylan Stephens of Muskogee, OK, Vivian Hanson and Tanner Wayne Godfrey of Braggs, OK, Naveah and Miah Phillips of Muskogee, OK; her sister, Nila Simmons Lewis of Tulsa, OK; her dear friend, Evelyn Hibbs of Muskogee, OK; her ex daughter in law, Melissa Stubblefield of Muskogee, OK; extended family and many friends. The family is honoring Melba’s wishes and there are no services planned at this time. The family of Melba Louise (Simmons) Hanson has entrusted her care and cremation to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555. Online condolences may be left for the Hanson family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com

Melba Louise Hanson

March 26, 1943 - June 16, 2026