Melvin Hadley

1940 - 2026

Melvin Arthur Hadley, 85, passed away February 26, 2026. He was born May 24, 1940, in Star, Idaho, to Harold A. and Bertha Mae (Walton) Hadley, the second of five children.

Melvin grew up on the family farm in Star, where they raised crops and dairy cows. He attended schools in Star, Eagle, and Meridian, where he developed a love of Big Band jazz and became an accomplished cornet player. He graduated from Meridian High School in 1958 and later attended George Fox College in Newberg, Oregon, where he met Lyla Beth Bury, the love of his life.

Melvin and Lyla were married August 12, 1960, at Star Friends Church. After farming for several years, Melvin joined the Boise Fire Department in October 1964. Over a 26-year career he rose to the rank of Captain, served at several stations including the airport, and spent his final six years as Fire Department Chaplain.

Deeply committed to his faith, Melvin was active in church leadership, Bible study groups, and ministry. After retiring from the fire department, Melvin and Lyla pursued their long-held dream of mission work. They served for ten years with American Missionary Fellowship (AMF/InFaith) throughout the Olympic and Kitsap Peninsulas of Washington, leading camps, Vacation Bible Schools, and ministry outreach in rural communities.

Melvin and Lyla later settled in Port Hadlock, Washington, where they continued serving at Quilcene Bible Church. They enjoyed traveling, camping, and visiting family across the United States and beyond.

Melvin was married to Lyla for 64 years before her passing in December 2024. He is survived by his children John Gordon Hadley (Catherine), Marybeth Iverson, Ronald Hadley (Sharon), Susan Rose (James), and Ruth Anderson (daughter by choice); 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; siblings Floyd Hadley (Sharon), Warren Hadley (Laura), and Margaret Hiskey (Sam); and numerous extended family members.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Quilcene Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 p.m. at Quilcene Bible Church.



Friends and family may share memories of Melvin and sign the online guestbook at www.bradley-kosec.com