Charles Melton, 87, of Spindale died Wednesday, July 1 at Hospice House in Forest City after several years of declining health. A native of Rutherford County, he was the son of Ross (R.C.) and Ella Greene Melton. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Spindale for seventy-two years and attended the Men’s Sunday School Class. Mr. Melton was a graduate of R.S. Central High School and Columbia College of Radio and Dramatics in Chicago. He became interested in radio prior to World War II and joined the profession following a stint with Uncle Sam’s Infantry, including 30 months overseas in Africa, Italy, and France. After gaining experience with WENC in Whiteville, WBBB in Burlington, and WIS radio and TV in Columbia, SC, he joined the staff at WBBO as program director and chief announcer when the station opened September 14, 1947. He later built and owned WCAB in Rutherfordton and went on the air in 1966. He was active in several non-professional organizations including the Rotary Club and he served on the Spindale Town Council for several terms. Mr. Melton was preceded in death by his beloved wife Louise (Sug) Cashwell Melton. He is survived by one son, Randy and daughter-in-law, Jo Beth of Lewisville, NC and two grandsons, Trent Melton of Charlotte and Cameron Melton of Lewisville. Also surviving are a niece, Ann Deviney of Rutherfordton and a nephew, Dr. Patrick Cobb of Statesboro, Ga.; two great nieces, Cindy Camp of Rutherfordton and Amy Usrey of Clayton. He also leaves behind a special friend and caregiver, Bonnie Cherry of Rutherfordton. Funeral services will be held Friday, July 3 at 2 PM at First Baptist Church in Spindale with the Rev. Andy Evans officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service in the church Fellowship Hall. Interment will be in Sunset Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 105 E. Wilson Street, Spindale, NC 28160.