Melba Elizabeth Irías Milne (1948-2025)

Melba’s zest for life and vibrant nature touched the lives of many while she was in good health. Melba Elizabeth Irías Milne, 76, of Pembroke Pines, FL, died at a Fort Lauderdale, FL hospital of Frontotemporal dementia on Friday, January 3rd, 2025.

She was born in Tela, Honduras, in 1948 to parents Carlos and Julia Irías Paz. Melba was a dedicated daughter to both of her parents and was the primary caregiver in the final stage of her mom’s life. Melba, who had the nickname Betty, would often share lively memories of her childhood, including having a pet pig; excelling as a basketball player in high school; and participating in beauty pageants while attending secretary school and learning foundational English.

Soon after securing secretarial jobs in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, Melba wanted to pursue opportunity and a better life by moving to the United States. She ventured to New York City in the 1970s, landed a job in the garment industry, and lived with Dominican roommates in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. Melba excelled at her job and was quickly elevated to a higher paying job sewing buttons onto expensive products like leather coats and jackets. Her accuracy and speed got the attention of the Italian foreman, whom she eventually married and had her first daughter, Tania Mattera.

After a divorce, the 1980s led her back home, to Honduras, where she got remarried to David Milne and added to her family with two children Julia and Claudia. David’s career led them to put down roots in Clarendon Hills, IL, to raise their three daughters over the course of two decades. While living there, Melba established a strong group of friends who refer to themselves as the Ya Yas.

Once they became empty nesters, Melba and David established their US home in Ft. Lauderdale and lived as expats in Santiago, Chile. Melba enjoyed the culture, social ambiance, and Chilean wine. She jokingly referred to herself as “Señorita Veramonte” - a reference to her favorite wine while living there. Her involvement in charity endeavors and community service endeared her to everyone she met in Santiago. She was an excellent host, showcasing her cooking skills by making delicious tortillas, eggplant a la parmigiana, and every rice dish imaginable.

Her final chapter of life allowed her to travel; obtain a second home in Oak Park, IL; attend two of her daughter’s wedding ceremonies; and see the birth of her grandchildren.

The diagnosis of her rare dementia shattered the hearts of family and friends who witnessed the slow dimming of the light she carried. Melba will be remembered for her radiant smile, her infectiously positive outlook, and for being the pillar of her family. She was a master communicator and giver of good advice. She was feminist who displayed strong maternal instincts and loved anyone who loved life.

Melba is survived by her husband, David R. Milne, daughters Tania Haigh, Claudia Milne and Julia Milne; her brother Ricardo Irías and wife Lorena; her sister Julieta Rall; brother José Antonio Irías and wife Rosa; and extended family and friends in both the U.S., Honduras and the U.K.

In her honor, David and Tania Haigh have set up a fundraiser to support her love for continuing education at community colleges. 

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