Wes “Sonny” Melvin, 80, of Lubbock, passed away September 22, 2018. He was born in January of 1938 to John Jackson and Mary Christine (Gates) Melvin in De Queen, Arkansas. Sonny was raised in Knox City, Texas and graduated from Knox City High School in 1956. That same year, he joined the Army and served his country in Korea.
He married Ava Chastain on August 24th, 1959. He loved the Texas Longhorns and he was an avid collector of 18 Wheeler models. Sonny also loved history and historical sites, in particular, those that dealt with the military.
In his early career, he managed the Baker Company and Art Gallery. He had been General Manager for Steere Tank Line and was currently employed for over 20 years at Harmon Tank, where he was the parts manager. Sonny loved his yard making sure the look and landscaping were immaculate.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Ava, of the home, four children; Teresa Kitchens and husband Mike, Rick Melvin and wife Jeaninne all of Ponder, Texas, John Melvin and wife Jodi of Shawnee, Kansas and Rhonda Stephenson and husband Benji of Austin, Texas, 9 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and one brother, Richard Melvin and wife Hella of Midland, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.
The family will receive friends at Resthaven Funeral Home, Tuesday, September 25, 2018 from 6-8 pm. Funeral Service will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at Resthaven’s Abbey Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Joe Arrington Cancer Center - Chorus of Angels. Online condolences may be offered at www.resthavenfuneralhome.com.
