Samuel "Sam" D. Melton, 78, of Tuscola, passed away at 12:48 a.m. Sunday, June 15, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL.

Sam was born on December 4, 1946 in Murdock, IL the son of John and Leona Long Melton.  He married Mary E. Benson on October 16, 1970. They lived on the farm in Tuscola for 47 years.

Sam was a "Jack of All Trades" from carpenter to life lesson teacher to town kids to rancher.  He loved living on the farm, taking care of animals and kids either his own or extras.  He enjoyed fishing, deer hunting and his horses, especially Palominos.  He loved spending time with his family the most.    He was a US Army Veteran serving during Vietnam.

He will be truly missed by everyone who knew him.  He fought a brave 37-day battle after his tractor accident.

Sam is survived by his wife of 54 years: Mary Melton, son: Chad Melton, daughter: Cindy (Javier) Vazquez, 5 grandchildren: Clayton Leach-Vazquez, Kelson Vazquez, Riley Vazquez, Summer Melton and Isabel Melton, 3 brothers: Michael Melton, Gary Melton and Terry Melton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers: James Melton, Jesse Melton and John "Buck" Melton, Jr, sister: Hazel Donahue and granddaughter: Samantha Vazquez.

Graveside Services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 20, 2025 at the Camargo Cemtery with military graveside rites accorded.   Mr. Ted Shearer will officiate the services.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, June 19, 2025 at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 705 South Main Street, Tuscola, IL.

The family request casual dress.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Melton Fund at First Mid Bank.

Online condolences maybe shared at hilligossshraderfh.com