Leonard Thomas Melton

Rev. Leonard Thomas Melton age 86, of Otto, North Carolina formerly of Starke passed away Saturday, April 15, 2017 in Asheville, NC. Mr. Melton was born on June 14, 1930 in Gainesville to the late Lonnie L. and Norma Marie (Bias) Melton and moved to Otto 15 months ago from Starke. In addition to retiring as a minister with Baptist Ministries, Reverend Melton retired from United States Army following service in Vietnam. He was a current member of the Wolffork Baptist Church, the American Legion post in Starke, and Franklin, NC as well as a lifetime member of the DAV. Reverend Melton loved to visit with churches, singing in the choir, was an avid reader and loved animals. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother Buck Melton, grandchildren: Sean Stafford, Sabrina Williams, and his great granddaughter June Mattox. Survivors are: his wife of 63 years, Mary Katherine (Messer) Melton of Otto, NC, Children: Robert Melton of Florida, Jonathan Melton (Kelly) of Live Oak, Robin Rinehart (Charles) of Sebastian, Celeste Melton of Deland, Siblings: Otis Melton (Marie) of Starke, Catherine Thomas of Hampton, Joyce Mills of Hampton, and Odessa McConaghy (Irvin) of Williston. Also left behind are seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at Airpark Baptist Church on Saturday, April 29, 2017 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 P.M. with funeral services beginning at 2:00 oclock. Interment will follow in Santa Fe Cemetery. Reverend Charles Granger and Preacher Greer will officiate. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Airpark Baptist Church, 521 Orange Street, Starke, FL 32091. Arrangements are by JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME OF STARKE 904-964-6200. Cemetery Santa Fe Cemetery County Road 18 West Hampton FL 32044 US Funeral Home Jones - Gallagher Funeral Home - Starke 620 E. Nona Street Starke FL - 32091 US (904) 964-6200