Richard Andrew Melton

Richard Andrew Melton, 77, of Francisco, Indiana, passed away on March 12, 2026, after a long battle with cancer and black lung. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 26, 1949, in Evansville, Indiana, he was the son of the late Andrew and Esther (Sickman) Melton.

Richard was a dedicated member of Masonic Lodge 467 in Oakland City for more than forty years and belonged to the UMWA Local 4343. A skilled welder, he owned and operated his own welding shop for many years before retiring from Old Ben Coal Mine after more than thirty years of service. In his free time, he cherished camping and, above all, the moments spent with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Peggy (York) Melton; his children, Brian (Lori) Melton and Julie Beard; his grandchildren, LeeAnn Melton and Brandon Bond; his great-grandchild, Benny Bond; and his sisters, Linda (Jim) Brace and Carol Wirth. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Sandy Melton, his son Tracy Melton, and his sisters Catherine “Kate” Melton-Davis and Barbara Fleenor.

Richard will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.