Eric Lee Melton

Eric Lee Melton was born October 5, 1989 in Columbia, Missouri to Robert Lee and Rita Faye (Major) Melton. He grew up in Salem and raised not only by his loving family but a community of caregivers and friends. Eric was strong, very optimistic, and an inspiration to everyone who had the opportunity to know him. He loved unconditionally, and only knew kindness, compassion and love. Eric had a sweet spirit of innocence and with his smile, he made the world a better place. Eric truly enjoyed attending Grace Community Church with his mom, he loved the fellowship with others, and looked forward to it every week. Eric also enjoyed weekly visits to the Eagles Club with his dad, especially Friday’s where he enjoyed his fish, burgers, and singing karaoke. Eric liked to go bowling and went every year to celebrate his birthday. He traditionally participated in the Special Olympics and usually came home with several medals and always a smile on his face. Eric enjoyed the simple things in life; his favorites were riding his hoopie, watching his movies, especially Toy Story and Herbie, and playing his games. Eric had a welcoming and friendly nature about him which made it easy for him to make friends anywhere he went. He treasured any time spent with his family and cherished the memories made together. Eric departed this life February 26, 2022 in Salem, Missouri at the age of thirty-two years. He leaves behind to cherish his memory, loving sisters: Bobbie Gotchal and husband Steven of Salem, MO and Rhonda Mitchell and husband Roger of St. Louis, MO; nieces and nephews: Mantha Fry and husband George of Eminence, MO, Miranda White and husband Travis of Salem, MO, Dalton Mendenhall of Austin, TX, Hayden Gotchal of Salem, MO, Jodi Gotchal of Salem, MO, Roger Mitchell III of St. Louis, MO, and Ash Mitchell of St. Louis, MO; great-nieces and nephews: Adam, Kimber, Ollie, and Luna; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, caregivers, and dear friends. Preceding him in death, parents: Robert and Rita Melton; brother: Christopher Melton; and grandparents: Dale and Jane Melton and Glen and Verna Major. Eric lived a full and extraordinary life, he was a superhero to many, and will be missed to infinity and beyond. Memorial Services for Eric Lee Melton were held Saturday, March 5, 2022 in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Gary Bartle officiating. Song selections played were “Lead Me Home”, “That Don’t Impress Me Much”, and “You’ve Got A Friend In Me”. Celebration of Life was held at the Salem Eagles Club. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online condolences may be entered at wilsonmortuary.com

Eric Lee Melton

October 5, 1989 - February 26, 2022