Rutland Vaughn Melton

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Rutland Vaughn Melton, who peacefully transitioned to his Heavenly home at the age of 77. Born in the coal-mining community of Lynch, Kentucky, to the late Rosie Byrd Melton and George Miller, Rutland's life exemplified the very best of faith, service, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

From his earliest years, Rutland's life was anchored by his profound faith in Jesus Christ. As a devoted member of Greater Mount Sinai Baptist Church in Lynch, he didn't simply attend services, he became the very embodiment of Christian stewardship. His spiritual journey led him to serve with distinction in numerous capacities: as a faithful Deacon, an inspiring Sunday School Teacher, a trusted Trustee, and the dedicated Chairman of the Men and Women's Day Program. Perhaps most notably, he shared his God-given musical talents as a cherished member of the Mount Sinai Spirituals, where his voice became a source of comfort and inspiration to countless souls.

Rutland's creative spirit found its fullest expression through his two-decade commitment to Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College's Higher Ground program. As a storyteller, actor, singer, and Technical Advisor, he helped bring the rich cultural heritage of Appalachia to stages across the nation from the halls of Washington, D.C. to theaters in Alabama and California. His artistic contributions weren't merely performances; they were acts of cultural preservation, ensuring that the stories and traditions of Eastern Kentucky would continue to resonate with future generations.
His commitment to education extended beyond the stage. In his later years, Rutland graciously volunteered as an afternoon tutor, recognizing that knowledge shared is a gift that multiplies. A proud graduate of Lynch East Main School, where he earned his stripes as a Lynch Pirate, he continued his own educational journey at Southeast Community College, earning multiple degrees and certificates that reflected his lifelong pursuit of learning.

In 1968, Rutland answered his country's call, serving honorably in the United States Army during a turbulent time in American history. His military service instilled in him the values of duty, honor, and sacrifice that would guide him throughout his civilian life. Upon returning home, he married his beloved Maye Joyce Carter, beginning a beautiful 46-year partnership built on love, mutual respect, and shared purpose.
Rutland's post-military career in the coal mines at U.S. Steel and later Arch of Kentucky represented more than employment, it was his contribution to the economic backbone of his beloved Eastern Kentucky. His work ethic and dedication earned him the respect of colleagues and supervisors alike before his well-deserved retirement.

As president of the Eastern Kentucky Social Club, Lynch Chapter, Rutland demonstrated natural leadership abilities that brought people together and strengthened community bonds. Those who knew him will forever remember his impeccable sense of style and fashion, which perfectly complemented his quick wit and warm personality. Whether dressed for Sunday service or a community event, Rutland understood that how we present ourselves to the world is a reflection of the respect we have for others and ourselves.
In his quieter moments, Rutland found joy in life's simple pleasures-watching Judge Judy's no-nonsense approach to justice, following the dramatic storylines of Tyler Perry's "Sistas," and losing himself in the timeless appeal of Western movies. These moments of relaxation were well-earned after a lifetime of service to others.

Rutland was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Rosie Byrd Melton and George Miller; his cherished son, Rutland Vaughn Melton II; his sister Jackie Carter; and his brothers Gerald Wayne Jackson, Winfred Lamarre Jackson, and Amos Jackson. While their Heavenly reunion brings comfort, their absence has left profound voids in our heart.

He leaves behind a beautiful tapestry of love that includes his devoted wife of 46 years, Maye Joyce Carter Melton; his sisters, Velda Renee Melton of Lynch, Kentucky, and Charlotte Bridges (Howard) of Columbus, Ohio; his nephew, Mateen Melton of Lexington, Kentucky; his daughter, Kimberly Graves (Gregory) of Indianapolis, Indiana; his grandson, Kevin Smith Jr. of Indianapolis; his great-granddaughter Aniyah Smith of Houston, Texas; and his bonus son, Corey Goodrich of Las Vegas, Nevada. His circle of love extended far beyond biological ties to include his treasured friends, Kenneth Davis, Curtis Mason, and Billy Joe Peeples, as well as his Higher Ground family, the Mount Sinai Spirituals, and his entire church family, whom he loved with the depth and consistency that defined his character.

While we mourn the loss of Rutland's physical presence, we celebrate a life that touched countless others through faith, creativity, service, and love. His legacy lives on in every student he tutored, every audience member moved by his performances, every church member inspired by his dedication, and every family member and friend who carries forward his example of how to live with purpose, dignity, and grace.
In the words often spoken in his beloved church, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Rutland Vaughn Melton's earthly work is complete, but his influence will continue to ripple through the lives of all who were blessed to know him.
"His memory will be a blessing, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who loved him."

Visitation will be Saturday, August 23rd, at 12 noon at the Greater Mt. Sinai Baptist Church.
Funeral Services will follow at 1 p.m. with Rev. Ronnie Hampton officiating.
Burial will follow in the Monte Vista Cemetery in Cumberland, Kentucky.

Pallbearers:

Quincy Jackson, Michael Ellington, Paul Smith, Corey Goodrich, Gary Amos, Mike Austin

Honorary Pallbearers:

Gregory Graves, Greater Mount Sinai Spirituals, Larry Evans, Kenneth Davis, Curtis Mason, Ed Harris, Sheryl Foutch, Robert Gipe

Johnson and Cumberland Valley Funeral Home are Honored to Serve the Melton Family.