Melba F. Cota (Willis) of North Troy, Vermont, passed away peacefully at her home July 2nd 2026, at the age of 93.

She was born April 22nd 1933 to the late Selden and Mildred (Sargent) Willis.

On September 15, 1951, she married the love of her life, Howard Cota. Together, they shared nearly 73 years of a beautiful marriage.

Melba was a devoted stay at home mother who lovingly raised seven children. She enjoyed making crafts, sewing clothes, creating baby quilts and making Raggedy Ann & Andy dolls for her children and grandchildren. She was an exceptional cook and baker, and her homemade donuts and jams were favorites among family and friends. Her special treats were often requested for birthdays and celebrations. She welcomed family into her home for countless holiday gatherings, no matter how large or small. If you couldn't find her in the kitchen, you would likely find her tending her vegetable garden or working on a puzzle or word search. For many years, she also helped her husband operate the family business Cota Sanitation.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband Howard Cota of North Troy, Vt. Also by her parents Selden and Mildred Willis and siblings Milton Willis Sr, Don Willis, Roberta Sargent, Ida Willis and Christine Willis. Also predeceased by her beloved daughter Kathy Cota, grandson Robert Cota and great grandchildren Nathaniel Cota and Aaliyah Descheneau.

She is lovingly remembered by her children Stanely Cota and his wife Anne of Troy, VT. Douglas Cota and partner Tina Willis of Newport Vt. Brian Cota and his wife Terry of Hardwick, Vt. Keith Cota of North Troy, Vt. Peggy Richardson and her husband Keith of Lowell Vt and Janet Cota of Newport Vt. She also leaves behind many cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as her sister, Priscilla Platt of New Hampshire.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday July 25, 2026 at North Troy Village Cemetery. Online condolences are welcomed at curtis-britch.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home & Cremation Service, locally family owned and operated.