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January 3, 1931 - May 16, 2016
Melton, Ray Emory was born January 3, 1931 in Sylvester, Georgia and passed away May 16, 2016.
He graduated from Sylvester High School in Sylvester Georgia in 1950. He was a great athlete and lettered in all sports. He was also invited to play in the 1950 All-Star Football game in Atlanta, Georgia. He received a football scholarship to Clemson University in South Carolina. In 1951 he joined the United States Marine Corps. He was assigned duty for the Atomic Bomb testing in May, 1952 at the Atomic Energy Commission Proving Grounds at Castle Desert Rock, Nevada. He served in the Korean War. On June 1, 1954 he played football for the Marine Corps in the Rice Bowl against the Air Force in Tokyo, Japan.
After being honorably discharged in 1954 he became a Civil Servant worker for the Marine Base in Albany, Georgia. Ray was then transferred to the Pearl Harbor Naval Base in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1959. After leaving Hawaii he began work as an Electrician in Dallas. He and Rose settled in Garland and lived there for 20 years before retiring to Mineola, Texas. He is retired from Southern Methodist University as a High Voltage Electrician and Communications specialist for the Mustang Football team. Ray is also retired from Wood County (Lake Hawkins) after moving to Mineola, Texas.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Rose Williams Melton; Children Melanie (John) Parks of Rowlett, Texas; Danny (Merydith) Melton of Prosper, Texas; Grandchildren; Katie Parks; Peyton Parks; Emmery Melton and Landry Melton; Sisters and Brother; Patricia Sims; Christene Kilcrease and Larry Melton; Nieces; Nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by Sister and Brothers; Betty Hoover; Gerald Melton and James Melton.
Ray had a zest and love of life. People often called him the Mayor of Hainesville, the small town he and wife Rose retired too. His passion was fishing on Sundowner Lake in his boat…well any lake he could get too. He loved growing tomatoes and gardening. But mostly he loved meeting and visiting with people.
A Memorial service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, May 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Aria Memorial Chapel, 19310 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75252 with Rev. Jerry Hays officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of
ARIA Cremation Service and Funeral Home
19310 Preston Road
Dallas, Texas 75252
214-306-6700
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Dorothy Hagin
May 20, 2016 1:25PM
Although we have not seen each other lately you are still my “favorite cousin”. I know I tell the others the same thing, but I’m telling you the truth. You will be missed by everyone who knew you. We will still go fishing, have a pole ready for me. My heart goes out to your family and friends. Dorothy
Jana
May 19, 2016 9:12PM
Wow, he had such an interesting background and life. I never knew! Sorry for you loss. I know he will be missed.
Scott Isbell
May 19, 2016 8:10PM
Trey is correct. I will always remember him as Uncle Ray. Very found memories growing up. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Melton family.
John Parks
May 19, 2016 7:32PM
Many, many fond memories. From family reunions to weekends in East Texas. Thank you for letting me be a part of this family. Your sense of humor and sharp wit will be missed. Until we meet again. Love you Ray!
Sue Dial
May 19, 2016 5:31PM
Rose, Melanie, Danny and family...my thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this time. Let God's peace settle into your spirit and know that one day you will all be joined together for eternity. Love you all much.
Sue
Penny Forte
May 19, 2016 4:26PM
So sorry for your loss he was a sweet man.
Anita York Mullis
May 19, 2016 2:28PM
Truly a great man that will be missed.
Even though a long distance from us we all knew Uncle Ray loved us. My heart an prayers are with you all from back where his roots were originated an was fortunate we are all family.
Trey Scott
May 19, 2016 9:35AM
He was never referred to as "Danny and Melanie's dad", and we never called him "Mr. Melton." To us, he was, and will always be, our Uncle Ray.
Diane F. Lee
May 19, 2016 7:50AM
My thoughts and prayers to the family. I loved this man too!!
Diane