Melva Lee Herrick Nunnery

Melva Lee (Herrick) Nunnery, 72, of Byrdstown, TN died June 1, 2026 at home surrounded by love. She was born August 23, 1953 at Ft. Madison, IA, the sixth child born to Marion E. and Louise M. (Wenke) Herrick. She grew up on the family farm south of Montrose, IA. She graduated from Central Lee High School and Southeastern Community College.

Melva married Denny M. Webb and they had one daughter, Megan Marie.

Melva was active with Great River Players in Keokuk, IA, performing in and directing many productions as well as serving on the board of directors. She was also involved with the Iowa Community Theater Association where she served on the board of directors holding the office of vice president.

Melva moved to Florida where she met and married Robert E. “Bob” Nunnery who survives. They moved to Byrdstown, TN, where Melva became active in the community. She worked at Legends of Dale Hollow and Sunset Marina before retiring. She was a member of Byrdstown First United Methodist Church, serving as worship leader and choir director as well as on the church council. She was active with United Methodist Women serving at the local, district and conference levels.

Melva was instrumental in the organization of Good Neighbors Theatre where she served as the first president of the board of directors and directed and performed in many productions. Melva was also a member of Cookeville Mastersingers.

In addition to her parents, Melva was preceded in death by an infant brother and sister, step daughter Jane Koepke of Louisville, KY, and brother-in-law Tom Mullins of Livingston, TN. She is survived by her husband, Bob Nunnery, and daughter, Megan Mertsock, both of Byrdstown, step daughters Heather Webb of Chesapeake, OH and Kelly Turner of Alton, IL, step son Rob (Sarah) Nunnery of Scituate, MA, sisters Doris Mullins of Livingston, TN, and Christal (Jim) Lewiston of Montrose, IA, brother Everett (Debra) Herrick of Ft. Madison, IA, eight step grandchildren and two step great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family has chosen cremation. A celebration of life will be held June 13th, 2026 at Brown Funeral Chapel in Byrdstown. The family will meet with friends from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with a memorial service to follow. A graveside service and interment of ashes will be held at 10:30 am on June 20th, 2026 at the Montrose Cemetery, Montrose, IA. Brown Funeral Chapel and Vigen Memorial Home are in charge of services.

One of Melva's greatest joys was Good Neighbors Theatre. Those wishing to honor her memory are invited to make a memorial contribution to the theatre, helping continue the artistic opportunities and community spirit she cherished.