Kimber Mellinger

February 1, 1971 — May 19, 2026

McPherson, KS

Kimberlie “Kimber” Janine Mellinger, 55, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at the KU Medical Center after a hard-fought battle with liver disease.

Kimber was born on February 1, 1971, in Waukegan, IL to Robert and Janice (Carlock) Mitchell. Kimber attended the Zion Benton Township Schools. It was there that she met and fell in love with her high school sweetheart, Royal Mellinger. They graduated in the class of 1989.

The two moved to McPherson, Kansas and attended Central Christian College where they graduated in May of 1991. Royal and Kimber were wed on October 10, 1992, at Wesley Free Methodist Church in Waukegan, IL. During their marriage, Kimber and Royal welcomed two beautiful children, Doralynn and Nickolas, into their lives.

Kimber was best known for kindness, generosity, and laughter. She brought a joyful and colorful spirit everywhere she went. Kimber held many working positions within the community including Walmart, First Baptist Church, Eisenhower Elementary, and the McPherson County Courthouse. Kimber also had a passion for helping others. Kimber participated in many volunteer opportunities with her most notable positions being the Director of the AWANA program at the First Baptist Church and a board member of the McPherson Community Thanksgiving Dinner.

She is survived by her loving husband, Royal Mellinger; daughter, Doralynn (Ryan) Black of Waverly, IA; son, Nickolas Mellinger of Topeka, KS; aunt & uncle, Joyce (Bill) Stein of Winthrop Harbor, IL; father/mother-in-law, George & Orvetta Mellinger of Jackson, MI; brothers/sisters-in-law, Al (Diane) Mellinger of Jackson, MI and Brian (Deb) Mellinger of Waukegan, IL; and many extended relatives and friends.

Kimber was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Robert “Robb” Mitchell.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Friday, May 29, 2026, at the First Baptist Church. A celebration of life service will be at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 30, at the First Baptist Church with Pastor John Pattison officiating.

Kimber had a very bright and fun personality. The family asks that you come in whatever colorful comfortable clothes that make you happy.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be payable to Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460, or given electronically through the crowdfunding link shown below.