CARTHAGE
Jessie Ralph Melton, 74, passed away Thursday evening November 11, 2021 at Rush Memorial Hospital in Rushville, Indiana.
The oldest of nine children born to the late Cordell Jessie and Jacqueline (Booher) Melton, Jessie was born in Albany, Kentucky on November 17, 1946. Formerly of New Castle, he has made his home in rural Carthage for the past 46 years.
An Army veteran, Jessie was stationed in Vietnam from 1966-1968. He served with the 9th Infantry Division and participated in the TET Offensive.
Jessie married the love of his life, the former Patty L. DeHart, in New Castle, on November 30, 1968. They shared 33 wonderful years together before the time of her passing on July 25, 2002.
After more than 30 years of service, he retired from New Castle Chrysler in 2001 where he worked in Quality Control.
Jessie loved to spend time with his family, especially his grand and great-grandchildren. He also liked to work on his farm and in his leisure, he enjoyed golfing and watching NASCAR. He was a huge fan and had a lot of knowledge about automobile racing in general.
Survivors include 3 children, Tammy (Tony) Leone of Greenwood, Pam (Jeff) Stirling of Zionsville and Kevin (Nikki) Melton of New Castle; 8 grandchildren, Taylor Leone, Jake and Luke Stirling, Triston, Alex, Shawn, Cole and Blake Melton; 2 great-grandchildren, Grayson and Delainey Pelt; 8 siblings, Sue Daniel, Steve, Roger, Jerry, Junior, Jeff, Tony and Larry Melton; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday November 18, 2021 at Marshall &Erlewein Funeral Home in Lewisville. Burial with military honors will follow at South Mound Cemetery- West Lawn Addition in New Castle. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday November 17th.
Memorial Contributions can be made to the American Heart Association- P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.
Online condolences can be made at www.marshallanderleweinfuneralhome.com
