Parkman and Fountain Hills, Arizona - Melba (Kimball) Cote, 86, passed away peacefully in her sleep, November 5, 2022, after living with Parkinson Disease for several years. Melba was born the 3rd child of Alice (Leavitt) and Erald Kimball of Parkman. She was a graduate of Piscataquis Community High School, Class of 1955. Melba married Roger Boone and with him raised a son, Jeffrey Boone, in Dover-Foxcroft. Melba remarried in 1995 to Robert Cote of Dexter, and together they made their home in Sangerville. Melba worked as a supervisor at Hathaway Shirt Co. in Dover-Foxcroft. When the company moved to Waterville, Melba continued to work for the company, driving to Waterville every day. In all, Melba worked for Hathaway Shirt Co. for 25 years and was recognized as an outstanding and dedicated employee. She moved on to work closer to home as a supervisor at Guilford Industries, and after that, at the Guilford of Maine store. She worked at the dental offices of Dr. Hill in Dover-Foxcroft for 10 years, until her retirement. Everyone who came into the office was treated to her warmth and infectious smile. Melba loved to travel and marveled at each new place her travels took her. She never believed she would be fortunate enough to get to travel to different countries. Each new place made an impression on her, but none as much as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. As much as Melba loved to travel, she loved fashion, and shopping. She was always up to date on the latest styles. Melba’s greatest passion was in making her house a home. She worked to make her Sangerville home a comfortable and inviting space, with outdoor gardens and flower beds for outside time, and well-furnished and appointed rooms inside. No one could spread mulch quite like Melba, and she spent hours making sure the garden beds looked perfect. She made friends easily, and enjoyed cooking for people and hosting gatherings for family and friends at her home. When the harsh winters of Maine were too much, Melba and Robert moved to Florida to be closer to family. Melba adored the sun and warmth of Florida, and the weekends spent with family having a cocktail, swimming in the pool, or just enjoying appetizers and snacks. Melba is survived by her grandson, Bert Boone of Guilford; her step-son, James Cote and his husband, Jacques Bourget, of Fountain Hills, AZ; step-daughter Lisa Fishman and her husband, Daniel, of Wallagrass; step-grandsons, David and wife, Serena Fishman, of Shanghai, China, Joseph Fishman of Waterville, and Benjamin Fishman of Wallagrass; sisters-in-law, Pam Gilles and Nancy Beckwith; daughter-in-law, Terry Boone; great-grandson, Nolan Boone; special friend, Prudy Bair; as well as two particularly close friends Carolyn Blake and Jane Hibbard Merrill. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 25 years, Robert Cote; her son, Jeffrey Boone; brothers, Wendell, Kelsey, and Philip “Ping” Kimball; as well as her parents. Melba will be remembered for her laughter and positive attitude, her strong work ethic and love of shopping, her love for her family and her home, and by how she treated her friends and her family. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a financial contribution in Melba’s memory may donate to the American Parkinson Disease Foundation https://www.apdaparkinson.org/1907d3l/ Per Melba’s wishes, she will be cremated and her ashes will be interred in the place she loved most, Parkman, alongside her husband, Robert Cote. In keeping with Melba’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at www.laryfuneralhome.com.