ROCKY MOUNT - Howard "Gene" Melton, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Born in Halifax County on May 23, 1938, he was the son of the late Jesse James Melton and Annie Hughes Eason Melton. He was also preceded in death by his infant sister, Mary Leona Melton, and his brothers, Harry James Melton and Jesse Daniel "J.D." Melton.

Gene is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Jane Stevenson Melton; his son, Gene Melton, II; his daughter, Myra LeAnn Melton; his sister, Margaret Melton Taylor and husband, Glenn; his sister-in-law Judy Melton; his caretaker whom he considered family, Della Mangum; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A private funeral service will be held at a later date with burial at Rocky Mount Memorial Park Chapel of Memories Mausoleum.