Alvin “Dewitt” Melton, age 87

Alvin “Dewitt” Melton, age 87, of Forest City, NC, passed away August 15, 2012.      

Alvin was born May 3, 1925 in Rutherford County, NC to the late King Etheridge Melton and Essie Hutchins Melton.  He was a US Army Veteran and served in the 12^th Armored Infantry Battalion during World War II. He was a Bronze Star recipient.  He was a farmer in his earlier years and then worked in textiles for over 35 years before his retirement.  He was of the Baptist faith.  He enjoyed Atlanta Braves baseball, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.  He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Estie Byers Melton; one son, Mark Melton; two brothers, Calvin Melton and Alfred Melton and his son-in-law, Jimmy Willis.

Left to cherish his memory are two sons, Rev. Alvin Melton, Jr and wife, Vicky of Stanley, NC and David Melton and wife, Rebecca of Forest City; one daughter, Patsy Willis of Henrietta; one brother, Forest Melton of Bostic; two sisters, Beatrice Hoyle and husband, Herman of Bostic and Madge Philbeck and husband, Ross of Mooresboro.  He is also survived by ten grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren. 

Funeral services were conducted at the Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Reverend Alvin Melton, Jr., Mr. David Melton and Reverend Cecil Lovelace officiating.  Interment followed in Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery with military honors being accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.      

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Rutherford County, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC  28043.

Harrelson Funeral Home is caring for the family of Mr. Melton.