James H. Melton Jr.

GLENDALE – James H. Melton, Jr. of Glendale, Arizona, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2022, with his family by his side.

Jim was born in Akron, Ohio on August 29, 1937. Even though he was an only child, he spent his youth happily with his cousins who were more like brothers and sisters. His aunts and uncles were also like secondary parents to him.

One of his proudest accomplishments was serving in the United States Air Force during the “Cold War Era” in the Strategic Air Command. He held an undying love and respect for the military and his country.

After leaving the military, Jim went on to work in the transportation industry, where is responsibilities grew alongside his experience. Mastering all aspects including claims, sales, and dispatch, he ultimately became terminal manager for major trucking companies. Prior to his retirement, he was Regional Manager at Motor Cargo. Nothing made him prouder than mentoring others and assisting them with their own personal and professional growth. He had many colleagues along the way that he thought more of as his sons or nephews. He cherished their ongoing friendship, even long after he retired from the industry.

Jim was a proud Christian man. Through his years, he served as a lay leader at his church, and provided many inspiring sermons. His devotion and service to the Lord were apparent from his dedication to the church, as well as in his everyday actions. Between his faith and natural leadership, he would provide guidance to any that needed it. Even while in the hospital, he would try to provide inspiration to anyone who would listen.

He is survived by his soul mate, best friend, and wife of 63 years, Kay Melton. The ultimate proof that true love does exist, their story was a fairytale. Jim always said he immediately knew he met the woman he was going to marry when he met Kay. He is also survived by his daughter, Kathleen, and his granddaughter, Shayleigh. Let there never be a doubt, they were his girls. He was the epitome of what a husband, father and grandfather should be, and will be missed dearly.

The family would like to express their sincerest appreciation to the staff at Arrowhead Hospital, as well as Advanced Health Care of Glendale, for their amazing care of Jim, to try to make him feel as comfortable and loved as he was during this time.

A memorial service will be planned for a future date at Glendale First United Methodist Church, in Glendale, Arizona. The family will share this information once the information is available.