Robert E. "Bob" Melton

Robert E. "Bob" Melton, beloved husband of Lynda and devoted father of Robin and Robert "Bob" Jr., passed away on October 20, 2026 in Houston, Texas, surrounded by his adoring family. He was born May 10, 1940 in Lufkin, Texas to parents, Leva and Haden Melton and later became a protective big brother to sisters, Diane and Carol.

Bob grew up in Lufkin and attended Lufkin schools where he graduated with the LHS Class of 1958. He and Lynda were high school sweethearts and loved and supported each other unconditionally for the next 65 years of their marriage. He stayed close to many of his childhood friends over the years but made many additional friends over the years throughout his career. He managed printing plants nationwide for many years, spanning a career of 37 years before his retirement in 1998. He was a dedicated employee and a trusted and respected employer. He was the most loyal person you would ever meet, generous and kind, a true friend's friend.

Bob's first love was always his family, especially his children and grandchildren. Many times were spent camping, fishing, skiing or sitting at the ball field watching the kid's games. He never missed a ballgame or dance recital unless he was traveling out of state for his job. He also loved anything outdoors. For many years he could be found hunting white tailed deer in the fall and large mouth bass fishing the rest of the year. He loved bass fishing and won many tournaments over the years. He could spend all day fishing and even if he caught nothing, which was rare, he still had a wonderful time. He always loved playing games and was an accomplished chess player. He especially loved card games. For many years after retirement he played gin rummy daily with a group of friends and played in several other card groups at the time of his passing. He considered everyone in these groups as friends.

Left to mourn Bob's passing are his wife, Lynda, daughter Robin Allen Buggica (Michael), son Robert "Bob" Melton, Jr. (Mona), grandchildren Russell Allen (Annie), Mark Allen (Morgan), Alexis Hudspeth (Justin), and Ashley Bartoskewitz (Brandon). Also great grandchildren Addison, Hannah, Hayden, Hadley, Jaidee, and Eli. Also sisters Diane McCrea (Llew), Carol Mayorga (David), sisters-in-law Carlyn Garner (Duncan) and Deborah Webb (Alan) and Suzanne Russell. Also a very special extra son, Sean Patrick, whom Bob took under his wing and loved.

Pallbearers will be Mark Allen, Russell Allen, Justin Hudspeth, Michael Buggica, Duncan Garner, and Sean Patrick. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Lufkin Masonic Lodge #669.

Preceding him in death were his infant sister and infant son, his son-in-law Keith Allen, brother-in-law Charles Ray Russell, parents-in-law Benna and Desmon Russell and his parents and grandparents.

A visitation with the family will be held at 2:00 p.m. followed immediately by the funeral service at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Both events will take place at Christ Congregational Church (his church that he loved) located at 105 Saddle Creek Drive, Lufkin, 75904. Officiating will be Reverend Randall Green with organist, David Lawson and lector, Todd Stracener.