Thomas Melton

Thomas “Tommy” Beard Melton, 81, of Keene, Texas, was called to his heavenly home on November 1, 2025.

Born on March 17, 1944, in Bells, Texas, to Claude and Hazel Melton, Tommy grew up alongside his sister, Jean, and graduated from Bells High School, where he was known for his love of basketball and his easy smile.

After high school, Tommy began working in the ice cream industry—a career he faithfully dedicated himself to for over 50 years. He knew more about ice cream than just about anyone and took great pride in doing his work well and with integrity.

Tommy was a simple man who loved the open road, good southern food, and a well-organized system. In his younger years, he enjoyed motorcycle rides and bowling leagues with his beloved wife, Crystal, whom he shared life with for 50 wonderful years. They loved taking road trips together—especially to Arkansas to visit her family. He recently laughed about how Ruby, Crystal’s sister, always made sure he had his own room there—complete with his ashtray.

At home, Tommy found joy in the little things—cooking breakfast, watching old westerns or Hallmark movies (which he’d never admit often made him cry), and listening to the oldies from the 50s and 60s. He had a quick wit and loved to joke, often using humor to hide a tender heart.

Tommy accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior at a young age and was later baptized. Though he wrestled through many years of struggle, regret, and feelings of unworthiness, he always knew deep down the truth of the Gospel. His quiet belief that Jesus is the Son of God never left him, even when faith felt hard to hold onto.

He overcame many personal battles, including alcoholism and cigarette addiction, and though his body bore the cost in later years, his strength and determination were a testament to God’s grace at work in him. He carried regrets from his younger years and often spoke of wishing he’d done better by his children—especially his sons Jeff and Cary—but his deep love for them never wavered.

He adored all of his grandchildren, and in his later years, his grands and great-great-grands became one of the greatest highlights of his life. His family was his heart, even when words were hard to find.

He is survived by his loving wife, Crystal Pauline Melton of Keene, TX; children Cary, Jeffrey, Tammey, and Charles; sister Jean (Victor); 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Hazel Melton, sons Terry Kuykendall and Harold Dean Kuykendall, and daughter Debbey Kuykendall.

A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held at Skyvue Funeral Home on December 1 at 11:00 a.m., led by Former Pastor Randy Weeaks of Walnut Ridge Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National MS Society.

Tommy’s life was marked by quiet strength, humor, and an enduring love for family. His legacy lives on in the laughter, stories, and generations he leaves behind.