John (Jack) E. Melton, born March 11, 1924 in Lakeland, Florida passed away at his home, surrounded by family, on July 30, 2020 at the age of 96. He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Virginia G. Melton. He was the only child of Iris Q. Cobb and John E. Melton, II. He is survived by five children and 14 grandchildren: Stephen (Sandy) Melton (Rene, Lorraine, April); John E. (Laura) Melton, Jr. (Emily, John Ed, Julie, Trent); Rebecca M. Worrell (Kelsey, Garrett); Mark (Doris) Melton (Casey, Cody); Joe (Beth) Melton (Clint, Ben, Chloe), 15 great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Marian Klein Wattles (Jack), and nieces and nephews of the Garfield and Klein families. He also leaves behind beloved members of the Frank & Charlotte Tomkow family: Francine, Ann, Lisa, Frank and Beth and their families.

A WWII veteran, Jack joined the Navy at 17. After his service, he attended the University of Florida on the GI Bill, where he graduated in 1950 with a Bachelors of Science in Agriculture. Afterward, Jack and Virginia settled near Spring Lake, FL where they began to build their family farming business with cattle, citrus, and seed harvesting. By modeling hard work, consistency, integrity, humor, and a handshake one could trust, Jack inspired long and lasting relationships with family, friends, employees and customers.

On Saturday, Aug. 8, at 10:30 a.m., a memorial service will be held outside on the grounds at Jacks home, followed by a catered lunch. Social distancing protocols will be respected. A private internment at the Trilby Cemetery will be later. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to HPH Hospice Foundation, Donation Dept, 12107 Majestic Blvd, Hudson, FL 34667.