Max Melton departed this world on June 26, 2024.
He was born on September 17, 1931, on Mt. Vinson Road in Stantonville, Tennessee to Millard and Evelyn Melton. Max was the couple’s second child. He grew up in the Mt. Vinson area attending school in Stantonville and Adamsville. After high school, Max served in the Korean War with Co. C 44th Army Engineering Battalion. On October 2, 1954, he married his sweetheart Shirley Smith in Corinth, Mississippi. The young couple joined other family members in Peoria, Ill. Max worked for Wabco until he retired in the late 1980s. Afterwards, he and Shirley moved back to Mt. Vinson to care for his parents.
Max grew up hunting, fishing and working on the family farm. His love for bird hunting and fishing continued throughout his life. He spent many long days fishing on the Tennessee River with his best friend Arnold. In the 1970s, Max and Shirley took up square dancing. The couple traveled the country dancing and sightseeing. Max was a lifelong member of Mt. Vinson United Methodist Church where his family has attended for over 100 years. He served on many committees at the church and was instrumental in the care and expansion of the Mt. Vinson Cemetery.
Max’s bride Shirley Smith Melton of 69 years preceded him in death in October 2023. He was also preceded in death by his parents Millard and Evelyn Melton and his brother Harold Melton. Max ‘s two sisters Magdalene Harris and Jennie Kyle of Little Rock, Arkansas survive him. He is survived by his daughter Debbie Webb and her spouse Silas Webb of Stantonville. In addition, Max leaves behind three grandchildren Stacy Reaves and spouse George of Jenks, Oklahoma, Charlie Webb and spouse Gina of Columbia, Missouri, and Stephanie Webb of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Additionally he is survived by several great grandchildren, Bessie Reaves, Nicholas Webb, Camille, and Claire Reaves. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Mt. Vinson Cemetery fund.
