Norris Eli Melton

Norris Eli Melton, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2023, in Conroe, Texas at the age of 86. He was born in Paris, Texas on November 17, 1936, to Gail and Jewel Melton. He later moved to Houston where he met the love of his life, Laura Fay. Norris was 17 and Laura was 14 when they married on February 12, 1955, recently celebrating over 67 years of marriage. He was a devoted father and husband.

Preceding him in death were his parents, one brother and three sisters.

He is survived by his wife Laura Faye Melton, his daughters Pam and husband Pat Beard, Brenda Coleman and his son Dean and his wife Brandi Melton and brother Gail Melton. Also 9 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren.

At the age of 17, he bought his first Texaco gas station along with his 2 brothers which was the start of his true entrepreneurial adventure. He owned Texaco gas stations for over 40 years, and owned convenience stores, boat storages, mini storages, car washes, laundromats and multiple rental properties.

He spent the first half of his life in Houston and after retiring at an early age moved to Crockett, Texas where he lived until they decided to buy a motorhome and travel full time. Traveling all over the United States for over 25 years, with multiple friends and family and met many more along the way. They traveled to 49 states and numerous times to Canada and Mexico.

Norris loved and lived life to the fullest, enjoying card games, family reunions, vacations and playing pranks whenever he got the chance. He was a devoted father, always a great listener and gave sound advice.

He was a strong believer in his faith and loved to share his faith with all those around him. To know Norris was to know the Lord, he exemplified Godly characteristics in his everyday life showing love, compassion, integrity, and forgiveness.

Norris, also known as Papa, will be deeply missed by many friends and family.

Serving as pallbearers are Keith Pate, Micah Loyd, Derick Beard, Lane Phillips, Shane Moran and Marshall Matlock.

Special Thanks to Spring Creek and Village Green Memory Care and a very special thanks to Roccio with Hospice Plus who was his personal caregiver for over 2 years.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association would be appreciated.