William Douglass MeltonI am a Veteran.

of Conway, AR

May 27, 1940 - September 19, 2022

William Douglass Melton, known as Bill to all who loved him, was born May 27, 1940 in Monticello, Arkansas to Irene Hart and James Terrell Melton. He went home to the arms of Jesus on September 19, 2022 after a long and amazing life. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Edith Anne Ashcraft and Norma Jean Cook.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Janie Tanner Melton; his five children, Andrea (Robert) Moore, Bryan (Glenda) Melton, Amy (Allan) Downs, Stacey Seymour and Lisa (Bradley) Harmon; his eleven grandchildren, Emyle Moore, Kelsey Moore, Greg (Kristen) McDonald, Joshua (Stephanie) Melton, Lindsey Downs, Matthew Downs, Jasmine Swafford, Elyessa Melton, Jacob Melton, Noelle Harmon and Evan Harmon; three great-grandchildren; his brother, Neal (Jeannie) Hewitt and many loving nieces, nephews and extended family. He is also survived by his and Janie's two sweet and spoiled dogs, Penny and Maggie.

Bill served in the National Guard and US Army. He later attended Arkansas State Teachers' College, where he competed on the track team as a hurdler. He won numerous medals and set state records during his track career. Bill was also a Master Mason in the society of Freemasons.

Bill served the US Government during his 38-year career with the Department of Housing and Urban Development. One of the highlights of his career was his work in Alaska and Oklahoma with Native American Programs. He was able to visit many villages and reservations and enjoyed participating in local customs. He became a collector of artwork and crafts handmade by the communities he served.

Bill and Janie lived in Oklahoma for 17 years, where they owned Bill's dream property, a 160-acre ranch, complete with beef cattle and quarter horses. His grandchildren spent many happy summers there playing outside, fishing and hunting for ghosts.

Bill loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting. He even had the opportunity to go moose and bear hunting while living in Alaska. He enjoyed woodworking, especially carving ornate, beautiful canes that he would happily give to anyone who asked. He was a very generous soul and would give someone the shirt off his back if they needed it. Bill never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with someone anywhere he went.

Bill loved naming his vehicles, but his favorite was his white truck named George. He told lots of stories, most of which were only slightly embellished. He enjoyed arguing and would spark a debate with anyone who would participate. He had a stubborn streak a mile wide, but also found humor in almost every situation. He made up silly songs that he sang with his grandkids like ''It Only Hurts for a Little While'' and ''Snotty Bubbles''. He loved old westerns, Louis Lamour books and country-western music.

Bill gave the tightest bear hugs. He loved his family with his whole heart and his greatest joy in life was spending time with them. He was loved by all and will be forever missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, Bill's family requests that a donation be made in his name to the Alzheimer's Association. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Hospice Home Care for the loving care and support provided. We also thank Tara Goodrich and Church of Central Arkansas, Greg Thompson and the many precious friends and neighbors who have surrounded us during this difficult time.

Service Information
  Service
Memorial Service
Church of Central Arkansas
675 Dave Ward Dr Ste 101
Conway,  AR 72032
9/24/2022 at 10:00AM
   


Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
650 Central Landing Blvd.
Conway, AR  72032
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com