James Robert Melton “Bobby”, age 79, passed away on May 28, 2026. He was born on December 18, 1946, in Dehun, Mississippi, to Billy Melton and Audrey Norris Melton.

As a son of a sharecropper, Bobby was a man whose life was defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a willingness to help anyone in need. Though life eventually led him elsewhere, Mississippi always held a special place in his heart. He loved his home state and often spoke fondly of it, and those who knew him well understood that he would have loved nothing more than to have lived there throughout his life.

Throughout his life, Bobby loved the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, gardening, or simply enjoying nature. Some of his children's favorite memories were of playing baseball with their dad and picking wild berries along the railroad tracks. Known for his caring heart, Bobby was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need and never hesitated to take in stray animals, giving them a home and a second chance. Bobby as a bit of a prankster enjoyed making people laugh and bringing smiles to those around him. He appreciated life's simple pleasures. He treasured his possessions, loved wearing his baseball caps, and took great pride in his beloved Chevy truck.

Bobby was a resident of Cleveland, Texas for 33 years. He was a Veteran of the Vietnam Era and spent two years in Stutgart, West Germany. His family and friends will remember him as a hardworking provider, a devoted husband and father, a loyal friend, and a man whose kindness touched countless lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Audrey Melton; his son, James "Scooter" Melton Jr.; daughters, Sebrina Melton and Jennifer Hays; and brothers, Stanley Melton, Claude Melton, and Clyde Melton.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of nearly 49 years, Karyn Melton; children, Theresa Fitzpatrick and husband Robert, Eddie Webb and wife Olivia, Stephanie Middleton, Michuel Melton and wife Julie, and Debbie Thorne and husband Heath. In addition, he will be missed by his sisters, Sue Irish and husband Cullen, Carrol Ann Scheile, and Jeannie Marie Patton and husband Bill; brother, Roy Melton and wife Emma; 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10, at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton. A Rosary will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 11, at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home, with burial to follow at St. Anne's Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Robert Fitzpatrick II, Joshua Fitzpatrick, Franklin Welfl, Sam Marano, Heath Thorne, and David O'Neal. Honorary pallbearers are Phillip Freeman and Larry Reynolds.

Bobby's legacy of love, sacrifice, hard work, and unwavering devotion to family will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.