Stephen Dean Melton

Stephen Dean Melton, 77, went to be with the Lord on December 26, 2025, in Madisonville, TN.
He was born on August 21, 1948, in Knoxville, TN, to parents Clifford and Juanita Melton.
Stephen attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX, where he earned his associate's degree. He also proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, demonstrating his commitment, discipline, and dedication to his country. Known as a jack of all trades, Stephen worked in a variety of fields over the years, gaining experience in many different roles, and retired in 2012 after a lifetime of hard work and determination.
Stephen was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Guided by his strong faith, he dedicated his life to helping others, ministering, and sharing God's love. Through his witness and example, he touched the lives of countless people, leaving a legacy of compassion, service, and devotion to the Lord.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Juanita Melton, as well as his brother, Thomas Melton.
He is survived by his loving wife, Julia Melton, of Madisonville, TN; his sister, Jackie Limburg, of Loudon, TN; and his children: Stephanie (Carlius Son-in-law) Jones, of Knoxville, TN; Shonda Ferri, of Knoxville, TN; Christopher (Alexis) Melton, of Lenoir City, TN; Stephen Melton II, of Philadelphia, TN; and William Young, of Lenoir City, TN; as well as his sister-in-law, Cindy Blakey of Madisonville.
He is also survived by his grandchildren: HAaden Thornton IV, of Knoxville, TN; Arden (AJ) Jones, of Knoxville, TN; Winston Melton, of Lenoir City, TN; close cousins David and Connie Hair, of Lenoir City, TN; his nephew, Anthony Bolt, of Kingston, TN; and his niece, Shanna (Doug) Rucker, of Loudon, TN.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff of UT Medical Center and UT Hospice for the compassionate care shown to Stephen. They are also deeply grateful to Steve Hall and Garrell Foshee for their kindness and support during this time.
A graveside service with military honors will take place at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Loudon County Memorial Gardens with Pastor Steve Hall officiating.
Pallbearers will be Chris Melton, Stephen Melton II, William Young, Anthony Bolt, Doug Rucker, and Carlius Jones (Son-in-law).
Honorary pallbearers will include HAaden Thornton IV and Arden (AJ) Jones.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project on their website.
McGill Click Funerals and Cremations is honored to serve the family of Stephen Melton. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Stephen, please visit our floral store.