James Albert Melton was born the son of Vivian L. Melton and Frances L. Melton in Seminole, Oklahoma on November 24, 1928 and departed this life July 19, 2014 in West Plains, Missouri, at the age of 85 years old.

He was united in marriage to Vera Ridenour on May 11, 1946 in Belleville, Illinois. To this union, six children were born: Carolyn, Lois, David (Pete), Anthony (Tony), Jacquetta (Jacqui), and Carla.

He was preceded in death by his parents (Vivian and Frances), brother (Vernon Melton), two sons (David and Anthony), and his loving wife of 65 years, Vera.

He is survived by his brother, David Melton of Mammoth Springs, Arkansas; an aunt, Gladys Tompkins of Thayer, Missouri; four daughters, Carolyn Robinson (Johnny) of Winfield, Missouri; Lois Bechtel of Thayer, Missouri; Jacquetta Melton of Arcadia, California; and Carla Jansen (John) of Rancho Cucamonga, California; 12 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; many nieces and nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

James was a dedicated father, grandfather, avid sports fan, and devout Christian.  Besides raising and providing for his six children, he touched many lives through the family-owned JMC Racing Team.  

Visitation will be Thursday 6-8pm, Funeral Services Friday at 10am at Clary Funeral Home in Thayer, Missouri. Burial will follow at Grand Gulf Shiloh Church.

In lieu of flowers or gifts to the family, donations can be made to USABMX Foundation or

Camp Barnabas.

If you would like to mail your donation, please send your check to:       

USA BMX

Attn: Lisa Johnson

1645 W. Sunrise Blvd.,

Gilbert, AZ 85233

To make a donation by credit card, call:

Lisa Johnson

Financial Controller

USA BMX

(480) 961-1903

http://www.usabmx.com/foundation 

Camp Barnabas

PO Box 3200

Springfield, MO 65808  

For specific questions about donations, please contact Krista Adams at 417.708.0610 or email krista@campbarnabas.org