Marty Lynn Melton, 45, of Sandoval, passed away Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at St. Louis University Hospital. He was born on December 14, 1979, in Centralia, the son of Michael Grady and Terrie Melton.
Survivors that will remember Marty’s kind eyes and friendly smile include his children, Eric Melton of Sandoval, and Savannah Melton (Tristan Rhynes) of Centralia; son/nephew, Gage Garney of Centralia; his significant other, Jennifer Melton of Centralia; his grandchildren, Silas Melton, Greyson Melton, and Skyler Rhynes; his father, Glenn Dehn of Sandoval; his brother, Jerry (Andrea) Skurat of Sandoval; his sister, Kashia (Nathan) McCormick of KS; his aunts, Donna (Lynn) Groff of Sandoval, and Lisa (Brian) Jones of Huey; his mother and father-in-law, Sandy and Ken Ferguson of Iuka; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Marty was reunited after death with his mother, Terrie Dehn; grandmother, Emma Ashlock; grandfather, Richard Melton; and uncles, Kelly Melton, and Durock Melton.
Marty had a strong conviction to serve his country, which prompted him to enlist in the Army National Guard in his late twenties. He dedicated his whole heart to honor the country he loved. He was a true outdoorsman, who looked forward to time reconnecting with nature. Marty was a skilled hunter, prepping every year for deer season and squirrel season. Some of his best hunting memories were from deer season, searching for deer with his mom, Terrie. Marty liked spending time by the water, fishing for anything that would bite. When it came to family, Marty was the first to show up and the last to leave. To Marty, his two kids were the most important people in his life. He was always trying to teach and guide them in the best ways. Marty will be remembered for his loyalty, great sense of humor, and tremendous love for his family and friends.
A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. Interment will follow at Pratt Cemetery in Patoka, where military rites will be accorded by the Patoka American Legion Post #543. Memorials may be made in Marty’s honor to Pratt Cemetery or Patoka American Legion. Relatives and friends are welcome to the visitation on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and one hour before the service on Tuesday at the funeral home in Centralia. Online condolences and memories of Marty may be shared with his family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
