James Melton

James F Melton, age 83, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of August 25, 2025 in El Paso, Texas. He was a beloved husband, father, and friend, known for his honesty, strength, integrity, and wisdom. He was a practical man, often found working in his workshop, on computers, or other projects. Always quick to lend a hand, he was loved by all who knew him.

Born in Amherst, Texas on August 4, 1942, he spent his life living in the moment - taking a hunting trip, going boating at Elephant Butte, or going rock crawling. He was a proud veteran, having served in the Army National Guard and the US Army Reserves. He enjoyed his chosen career with the US Government as an electronics engineer. He took pride in his time as President of the Dona Ana Mutual Domestic Water Consumers Association and had just rekindled his interest in the Moose Lodges of Chapparal, Las Cruces, and Truth or Consequences.

He held a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from New Mexico State University and was a proud alum of the New Mexico Military Institute where he forged a lifetime of memories and several life-long friends.

Whether he was telling stories about racing or about his many other escapades, he could elicit laughter almost every time.

He is survived by his wife, BJ Manning; his children, Esther (Eric) Rush of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Laura (Jennifer) Huston of Albuquerque, NM; Robert (Wendy) Jaskula of Washington State; Kelly Smith Jaskula of Dallas, TX; and Rick (Annie Owings) Jaskula of Canton, TX; 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, who will carry on his memory with love and gratitude. His absence leaves behind a space that cannot be filled, but his spirit remains in the stories we remember and tell, the lessons he taught us, and the quiet moments that still feel like him.

A memorial service will be held on September 4, 2025 at 11 am at Getz Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso, Texas at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to MooseHeart, the children’s facility sponsored by the Moose Lodge.