Melba A. Bassler, age 96, of Fairview Heights, peacefully passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Greenville Nursing and Rehab.

Born on July 12, 1928, in Trenton, Illinois, Melba was the beloved daughter of the late Charles and Anna (née Kraemer) Bassler. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Doris (Harold "Power House") Liening.

Melba is lovingly remembered by her nephew, Gaylord Liening (friend Barbara Murphy) of Highland; her great-nephew, Jeffrey (Julie) Liening of Des Moines, Iowa; and great-nieces, Ashley and Haley Liening.

Melba led a distinguished career as a court reporter, retiring after 30 years of dedicated service within the St. Louis Court System. A member of the United Church of Christ, she was a woman of quiet faith and steadfast spirit. She found joy in traveling, and expressed her creativity and warmth through cooking, baking, knitting, and crocheting.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Moss Funeral Home in Trenton, officiated by Rev. Christy Smith. Interment will follow at Trenton Cemetery. Visitation will take place prior to  service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, plants, or other gifts, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Wounded Warrior Project, or the Belleville Area Humane Society. Contributions will be accepted at the visitation or may be mailed to Moss Funeral Home, 105 S. Main St., Trenton, IL 62293, who is serving the family.