Melrose Luella Hartley, 96, of Watseka passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at her home.  She was born on February 21, 1927 in Bryce, the daughter of Edward and Bertha (Schroeder) Lauterbach.   Melrose was raised by her step-father, Athol Martin.  She married James E. Hartley in Watseka on March 28, 1953 and he preceded her in death on May 19, 1992.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, step-father, two brothers and five sisters.   

Surviving are her children, Linda Simons of Lafayette, IN, Thomas (Stacie) Hartley of St. Augustine, FL, Karen Leaver of Watseka and Kellie (Randy) Perzee of Lafayette, IN; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Melrose was a member of First Christian Church in Watseka.  She worked in the printing business for Midwest Printing. She also worked at UARCO and was a beautician for many years. Melrose enjoyed her children and grandchildren.  

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Roy Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.  Visitation will be one hour before the service on Tuesday at the funeral home.  

Memorials may be made to First Christian Church in Watseka.

Please share a memory of Melrose at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.