Lawrence "Melvin" Penton

Lawrence Melvin Penton, 85, of Pensacola, Florida passed away Sunday, January 11, 2026. Melvin, the beloved son of William & Evelyn Penton, was born in Pensacola, Florida, on December 11, 1940. He was a lifelong resident of Pensacola and a devoted member of First Pentecostal Church. Melvin generously gave of his time as a member of Brownsville Boys and was known for his kindness and genuine care for others. He possessed a calm and welcoming presence that made people feel comfortable in his company. Melvin lived his life by touching the lives of many through his simple acts of kindness. Melvin was a dedicated entrepreneur. He founded Penton's Auto Clean-up, which operated successfully from 1965 through 2008. He also founded Penton's Self Storage in 1998, which remains in operation today. Throughout his life, Melvin demonstrated a strong work ethic and continued working until his health declined. Melvin's passions, first and foremost, were his love of God, his family, and his church. He also enjoyed family gatherings and dinners, traveling and riding his motorcycle. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, William "Billy" Penton; his grandson, Josh McCurdy; his niece, Terri Anderson; and his nephews, Ashley Penton and Chuck Penton. He is survived by his daughters, Robin (Bo) Vallia, Debbie (Andrew) Johnston; son, Tony Penton; grandchildren, Paul (Marissa) Vallia, Matthew Vallia, Daniel (Jennifer) Vallia, Quina Johnston, Brandon Davenport, Brittany Maynor, Tiffany Delaputro, and Chris (Jordan) Hewitt; sister, Bonnie Cleveland; brother, Harley Penton; and numerous great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a large extended family and many lifelong friends. Friend's visitation with the family will be Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11:00 am with the Celebration of Life at 12:00 pm at First Pentecostal Church of Pensacola. A reception with refreshments to follow. A small graveside service will be held at 3:00 pm on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Pensacola Memorial Gardens. Pastor Daniel Stroebel will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org/donate/. Pallbearers will be Paul Vallia, Matthew Vallia, Daniel Vallia, Brandon Davenport, Darren Penton, Tyler McCurdy, and Chris Hewitt. Honorary Pallbearers are Barry Hammac and Barber "Lightening". To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lawrence, please visit our floral store.