Rodney V. Melton

Rodney V. Melton, 95, of Arab, Alabama, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025. Born in Excel, Alabama, on September 28, 1930, and raised in Mobile, he was the beloved son of Buford and Annie Clyde Melton. Rodney grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep love for learning. He attended Mobile schools and graduated from Spring Hill College, where he not only excelled academically but also found joy on the baseball field as a proud member of the Spring Hill Badgers. His devotion to country led him to honorably serve in the United States Army during the Korean War, a service he carried with pride throughout his life. One of Rodney’s most treasured memories began in the church choir, where—while singing praise—he first saw Ann English. From that moment, his life was forever changed. Their love story grew into a beautiful marriage of 69 years, grounded in faith, respect, and unwavering devotion. He was a true patriarch—steady, gentle, and profoundly loving. Rodney began his career at Brookley Air Force Base in Mobile before being transferred to Redstone Arsenal, where he served in the Hellfire Project Office. During this time, he also worked part-time in accounting, developing the passion that would later become his life’s work. After completing 30 years of distinguished federal service, he retired from Redstone Arsenal. By then, he had already realized his long-held aspiration of establishing his own firm, Rodney V. Melton & Associates, which he continued to lead and faithfully serve for over 62 years. Retiring at age 88—he served the Arab community with integrity, kindness, and a sincere commitment to helping others. His clients became lifelong friends, and his reputation as a man of honesty and character became a cornerstone of the community he loved. A respected and prominent businessman, he served Arab with integrity and dedication for more than six decades. Faith was at the center of Rodney’s life. He was a devoted and active member of Arab First Baptist Church, finding great joy in the music and choir ministry. His heart for service extended beyond church walls through his involvement in the Jaycees, where he served as president and devoted countless hours to supporting local projects, education, and charitable causes. He later continued his civic engagement as a member of the Arab Rotary Club and was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow Award, a distinguished honor recognizing his steadfast service, leadership, and commitment to Rotary’s ideals. He believed deeply in giving back to his community, and he did so with humility, purpose, and grace. He gave generously of his time and resources, faithfully supporting Arab City Schools and Arab Musical Theatre and enriching the community he loved. Rodney is survived by his loving wife, Ann English Melton; his three daughters, Tonja (Dewayne) Hollaway of Arab, AL, Susan Melton of Arab, AL, and Juli (Scott) Camps of Alpharetta, GA; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as “Granddaddy;” sister, Sherron Demeree; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. His family was the pride of his life, and he poured his love into each of them. Pallbearers: Dewayne Hollaway, Tripp Hollaway, Allen Camps, Colby Camps, Josh Daniels, and David Neese. Honorary Pallbearers: Scott Camps and members of the Arab Rotary Club. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Arab First Baptist Church at 1:00 p.m. Rev. Alan Roggli and Rev. Mike Foreman will officiate the service, with interment following at the Arab Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Arab First Baptist Church. Rodney’s life was a living testament to faith, devotion, and love. His gentle strength, his generosity of spirit, and the warmth of his presence will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and the community he served so faithfully. Arrangements entrusted to Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel.

Rodney V. Melton

September 28, 1930 - December 1, 2025