Jack D. Melton

Jack D. Melton, a 90-year-old well known Vinita resident, passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 4, 1933, in Dearing, Kansas to William Clell and Dorothy Dean (Pennell) Melton. Jack bravely served his country for 10 years, serving in the Army, Army National Guard, and the Navy from 1950-1962. At 15 ½ he was in Korea, serving on the front lines before they realized his age and sent him home to finish his service as a National Guardsman. He returned to Vinita and became a career firefighter, serving as Captain, Assistant Chief, and was the Fire Chief for 5 years, retiring in 1985. He later went to work at Eastern State Hospital in 1987 and worked there approximately 10 years in the drug and alcohol division. Jack loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, taking care of his yard, feeding the birds and squirrels, reading, cheering on the Oklahoma Sooners, and his daughters when they were in athletics in Vinita. Jack was a wonderful husband and father and had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was cut from a strong cloth, was always available to help a friend, neighbor, or family member, serving them humbly, and quietly, without fanfare or accolades. He was a kind and gentle soul.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Carl Melton, Carrel D. “Deek” Melton, Bill Melton, Keith Melton, Jolene Hicks, Linda Bassett, and a bonus son, Park Carter.

The family includes his wife of nearly 63 years, Willa E. Melton of the home, daughters, Sherry Morse and husband Keith of Eufaula, Donna Eastin and husband Steve Brown of Vinita, brother, Terry “Whitey” Melton and wife Sue of Vinita, sister, Joyce Mayo and husband Gilbert of Muskogee, sister in law, Loretta Melton of Tulsa, grandchildren, Josh Eastin and wife Sabrina, Jake Eastin, Matthew McSpadden and wife Phuong, Aaron McSpadden and wife Josselyn, Taylor Brunk and husband Tyler, Callie Morse, bonus son, Timmy Carter, bonus daughter, Dena Olson-Pitts, great-grandchildren, Jaxon Eastin, Jaela, Ace, Rian, Elle, Jensen, Jett, Kate, Alice, Mara, Finn, Storybrooke, Style, and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

The graveside service will be held on Monday, February 26, 2024, at 12 Noon at the Fairview Cemetery in Vinita, with Chaplain Troy Johnston officiating. Military Rites and Fireman Honors will be presented. Online condolences may be made at www.highsmithfh.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of the Burckhalter-Highsmith Funeral and Cremation Services of Vinita.