Mel N. Eichelbaum

Born on August 3, 1942, in Bronx, New York, Mel spent his early childhood in poor health. Seeking a warmer climate better suited to his wellbeing, his family eventually moved south, a change that helped shape the long and meaningful life he went on to lead.

Mel was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather who took deep joy in supporting the interests and accomplishments of his family. While family was always his top priority, his concern for others never waned. Throughout his distinguished legal career, Mel was driven by a strong sense of justice and a lifelong commitment to helping those who were poor, marginalized, or without a voice.

After serving in the United States Army, Mel earned his law degree from the University of Texas School of Law and was admitted to the Texas Bar in 1967. He began his legal career with the Bexar County Legal Aid Association, where he spent years helping the poor and disenfranchised. He later became a named partner at the downtown firm of LeLaurin, Adams, Eichelbaum & Sanders. In 1979, Mel opened his own solo practice, the Eichelbaum Law Office, which he maintained until his retirement in 2008. He also served as a Municipal Court Judge for the City of Leon Valley.

Mel was especially proud of his work before the Texas Supreme Court and of the broader impact of his advocacy. A passionate writer, he chronicled his experiences in his memoir, The Legal Aid Lawyer, published in 2019. His writing and advocacy earned him numerous honors, including the 1985 TSTA School Bell Award for outstanding editorial writing.

His larger-than-life presence was felt across many organizations he supported and served, including the San Antonio Bar Association, the San Antonio Bankruptcy Bar Association, where he served as president, Jewish War Veterans, Jewish Community Relations Council, Temple Beth-El, the Boy Scouts of America, and his community homeowner’s association.

Mel is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Marlene; his sons Rob (Jennifer) and Mark (Jen); his grandchildren Hannah, Hayden, Bailey, and Maegan; and his sister, Sandy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Pauline Eichelbaum.

A memorial is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 2:30 PM at Temple Beth-El, located at 211 Belknap Pl. San Antonio, Texas, 78212. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Mel’s remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Beth-El, the Southern Poverty Law Center, or a scholarship fund at St. Mary’s University School of Law.

Mel will be deeply missed, but his warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to justice and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.