Mela Ash Dedeaux was born November 15, 1932, in Delisle, Mississippi to the union of Abraham and Letha Ash. She professed her faith at a young age and was a member of Mt. Zion Methodist Church, Delisle, MS. She later joined The Little Rock Missionary Baptist Church, Gulfport, MS was baptized and served as a faithful member until she departed this life.

Mela attended Grand Creek School in Delisle, Mississippi. Upon completing her education, she married Byron Dedeaux and to this union, five children were born.

Mela traveled the world with her husband and family during his tenure with the United States Army. They returned home to Delisle, Mississippi upon Byron's retirement from the United States Army. Mela was a devoted wife, loving mother, and grandmother.

Mela loved cooking and shared her talents as an excellent cook. She was the cook for the priests at St. Stephens Catholic Church for many years. The community of Delisle/Pass Christian also treasured her meals, and this gave Mela tremendous joy.

Mela was preceded in death by her husband, Byron Dedeaux; her parents, Abraham and Letha Ash; and two brothers, Fred Ash and Raymond Ash.

Mela leaves to cherish her memories; five children, Vernon (Jackie) Dedeaux, Donald (Barbara) Dedeaux, Howard Dedeaux, Mechell Dedeaux, and Kimbley Dedeaux; two brothers, Hubert Ash and Calvin Ash; one sister, Phyllis Daniels; ten grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.