Billy Gene Melton, 59, of Centralia passed away Monday, October 2, 2023, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.
He was born on August 11, 1964, the son of Harold and Wanda (Eskew) Melton in Centralia. He married Kimberly Gayle Clegg in 1990 and they later divorced.
Survivors that will cherish fond memories of Billy include his beloved family, children, Christopher (Aspen) Clegg of Centralia, Justin (Rebecca) Clegg of Centralia, B.J. (William) Swofford of Tamaroa, Press (Jennifer) Melton of Centralia, Lane (Kyndra) Melton of Centralia; grandchildren, Rylie, Christopher, Jaden, Brady, Mackinley, Alexaundria, Aspen, Justin Jr., Colton, Abagail, Makaylynn, Hunter, Brynlee, William, Arial, David, Melony, Waylon, and Brentley; brother Rick Melton; nieces and nephews, including special niece, Summer Claybourn; bonus sons, Mark Newcomb and Jordan Powell; and best friend, Gary Hixenbaugh.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mary Barnett; brothers, Robert Tolbert, and Danny Tolbert.
Billy was a Christian, attending the First Apostolic Church of Centralia and later Crossroads Church in Centralia. He was a hard-working over the road truck driver for 20 years. He was known for his shade tree mechanic abilities and could do quick fixes while out on the road with his truck. Billy appreciated the body type and speed of muscle cars. Billy was an animal lover who spoiled his dogs, Lady, Loretta, and Killer. He loved to laugh and get those around him laughing as well. Billy had a love of Jerry Lee Lewis’ music. He made sure to call and discuss The Curse of Oak Island and that more wood was found. He loved his grandchildren dearly and was a very present, loving grandfather, who loved to pester and annoy his kids and grandkids in a fun way. Billy will be remembered for his contagious sense of humor, his way of bringing people together, and his love for his family.
A celebration of life service will be held by the family at a future date. Memorials may be made in Billy’s honor to Irvin Macz Funeral Home to assist his family with services. Online condolences and memories of Billy may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
