Laurence “Larry” Henley Melton Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on the night of his 81st birthday, March 29, 2025. Larry was born in 1944 to Laurence and Iwana Melton in Dallas, Texas, and spent his life dedicated to his family, his community, and his faith.
A proud graduate of Dalhart High School in 1962, Larry was a standout member of the football team and contributed to the annual staff. His academic achievements led him to Texas Tech University, where he became a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. It was at Texas Tech that he met his future wife, Marlys, and they were married on August 28, 1965. Their love story was one of devotion and partnership that spanned more than five decades.
After graduating from Texas Tech in 1966, Larry and Marlys moved to Dallas, where Larry attended Baylor University College of Dentistry. After earning his dental degree, Larry’s professional journey took him to Beale Air Force Base in Yuba County, California, where he served as a dentist for two years. In 1973, Larry and Marlys moved to Carrollton, Texas, where they would build a life together and raise their two sons, Lauren and Jeremy. Larry opened a private dental practice in Farmers Branch, Texas, where he served his patients with care and compassion for 31 years. In 2003, Larry and Marlys relocated to East Texas. He then worked for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for a decade before retiring. Over the years, Larry built lasting relationships with his patients and was known as a trusted and skilled clinician.
Outside of his career, Larry found joy in giving back to his community. He served as Scout Master for Troop 876 for 13 years, guiding many young boys to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. His mentorship, wisdom, and encouragement were a cornerstone in the lives of those he led. Larry was also a dedicated member of Valley View Christian Church, where he served on the missions committee and participated in mission trips to Mexico, Thailand, and Ukraine. Retirement brought a move to Frisco where he attended Stonebriar Community Church and was a faithful member of Marathon Class.
Larry had many passions beyond his work and community service. He was an avid gardener with a green thumb, always looking for ways to expand his garden. In his retired years, Larry could be found swimming every morning with many friends. Larry was also known for his love of playing Mexican Train dominoes on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the Frisco Lakes community group. He and Marlys loved traveling together, exploring new places and creating memories. In his later years, Larry joined the Sons of the American Revolution, where he took part in flag ceremonies and fulfilled his deep sense of patriotism and honor for his country. Family was of the utmost importance to Larry. He was a devoted grandfather to seven grandchildren and made it a point to attend their sports games, activities, and milestones, always showing up to support and encourage them.
Larry is survived by his loving wife, Marlys; their two sons, Lauren Melton and his wife Jennifer, and Jeremy Melton and his wife Melissa; his seven grandchildren, Brynn, Addison, Cassidy, Britton, Summer, Zoe, and Tanner; as well his sister Lawana “Kande” Gibson, and many extended friends and family members who were blessed to know him.
Larry’s legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
A Memorial Service will be held at Stonebriar Community Church, 4801 Legendary Drive, Frisco, Texas 75034, on Saturday, April 12, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM.