Melton "Mickey" Earl Gile

Melton Earl Gile, affectionately known as Uncle Mickey, passed away on June 28, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and boundless love. Born legally blind on June 24, 1939, in California, Mickey's journey was characterized by a determination to embrace life despite the challenges he faced.

Mickey's parents, Wilbur Sylvester Gile and Dorothy Marie Blount, recognized the need for specialized care and education for their son. At an early age, they sent Mickey to the California School for the Blind in Fresno, CA. The summer of 1946 fate intervened when Mickey's path crossed with that of his beloved foster mother, Ethel Viola Tompkins (Doshier).

Ethel, a foster mother in Sanger, CA, welcomed Mickey into her home for the summer when he was just seven years old. When taking Mickey back to the school at the end of the summer, she saw the inadequate conditions. Ethel made a life-changing decision and brought Mickey back home, raising him as her own child. Mickey's foster brothers, Leon and Henry, immediately embraced him, teaching him life skills, including driving a jeep on the ranch and swimming. They treated him as their younger brother, ensuring that he felt loved and included in all their activities.

Despite being legally blind (with limited peripheral vision of shadows and primary colors), Mickey excelled academically, graduating from Sanger High School in 1958. Throughout his life, Mickey cherished the support and love of his extended family and friends, who became his pillars of strength.

Mickey's career was marked by his role as the owner of a snack cart at the courthouse and his employment at the School for the Blind in Los Angeles. He lived independently in his West Hollywood apartment, remaining self-reliant even when his vision faded entirely.

Mickey's adventurous spirit knew no bounds. He eagerly embraced family gatherings, traveling to Utah for Thanksgiving and summer vacations, creating precious memories with his loved ones. Mickey fearlessly rode ATV’s and scooters, relying on his family to be his eyes and his “stick" (folding walking cane for the blind) to navigate the terrain. His infectious enthusiasm and gratitude inspired everyone around him.

A compassionate soul, Mickey had an incredible ability to connect with people and make them feel like family. He treasured listening to books on tape, particularly enjoying the Bible. His remarkable memory allowed him to recall important dates and birthdays, often reminding loved ones of significant events before anyone else. Mickey's knowledge of calendars, street maps, and his unwavering spirit made him a remarkable man.

Mickey's tenacity and indomitable spirit shone brightly during challenging times. When the bus he was on during the LA riots had to return to its base, he relied on his mental map of Los Angeles streets, using his "stick" to navigate his way home for several hours. He traveled across the United States by bus, visited the Holy Land, and embraced various modes of transportation, including trains, cars, and airplanes. Mickey's dream of experiencing the power of horses at the Kentucky Derby remained unfulfilled but served as a testament to his unwavering spirit. He loved the thrill of buying lottery tickets with his friend and caregiver, Gene. They would plan what they would do with all their winnings.

Even in the face of adversity, Mickey faced his battle with cancer with unmatched strength and a selfless heart. He always put others first, offering support and empathy without complaint. Mickey's legacy of resilience and kindness will forever remain an inspiration to all who knew him.

Melton Earl Gile aka Mickey, will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering strength. While we mourn his passing, we take solace in the knowledge that Mickey's spirit will forever be just a thought away.

A celebration of Mickey's life will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at a graveside service at 10:00 AM at Belmont Memorial Park, 201 N. Teilman Ave, Fresno, CA 93706.

In honor of his memory, the family kindly requests that any donations be made in his name to Guiding Eyes for the Blind to support the visually impaired.

We know that Mickey's soul found eternal peace. May his memory be an example, and guiding light, for us all.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stephensandbean.com for the Gile family.