Lamar A. Melson

Lamar Melson, what can you say that explains this man? He lived a life marked by courage, from a tough young life, and loyalty. A Korean War veteran and former Army boxer. If you know Lamar you've heard the stories about the storms out in the ocean, a man named Henry Height, Leon at Gaylord, interjection of a quick native American chant wigwambylow getcha getcha guylow wuuug wuuug, some knee slap music, home remedies from a book written years ago that acted as his health bible, repetitive jokes that everyone obliged in laughter because of his delivery and making himself laugh, and the Atlanta Braves. He had an incredible work ethic, not taking a single sick day at Gaylord and maintaining 2-3 jobs at a time to provide better opportunities for his family than he had growing up. An obituary about Lamar wouldn't be complete without mention of his marriage to Eleanor. This marriage was about as "by the good book" as it could be. He treated her with the utmost respect the way God intended. She was his crowning achievement in life. Even when things got tough with Eleanor, as she declined, he would take her to the farmers market, walk with her, or just sit with her on the swing. He followed her wherever she went and was the epitome of leading by example. He retired from Gaylord after 41 years and worked side by side with her, providing elder care, until they could no longer work. They had a funny relationship at times. The occasional instance he would catch Eleanor spoiling her grandkids with too much money was funny to experience. You see, it did not matter how mad he got; Eleanor was the love of his life, and what she said ultimately was the law, and he respected her place in the family order. He was a man's man, but in the best way possible. Lamar was a man of principle. You did not want to cross him in his younger years; decorative pianos, stories of his strength, and boxing escapades while in the Army come to mind. He would often say, "You have to roll with the punches" and "Have you ever heard of the bolo punch?". However, as tough and strict on discipline and hard work, you could find him sneaking some ice cream to his grandkids before they were really supposed to eat ice cream. Although tougher than Eleanor on money gifts you could expect him to give you all the change and dollar bills in his pockets. The family always looked forward to seeing him open gifts and smelling the nice scent of new clothes. The simplicity of Lamar was what everyone knew and what made the man so easy to love. Lamar never sought recognition or praise. He walked through life with confidence and unwavering faith. Lamar did things quietly as if he wasn't even there. He loved his family. Always inquisitive about his kids, grandkids and great grandkids. His grandkids were his pride and joy. Lamar passed away peacefully with family with him on July 25th at 9:25pm. He is survived by his three sons: David, Dwight, and Dan. Their Spouses, Brenda, Lesley, and Lori. His beloved grandchildren, Mitchell, Haley, Tyler, Campbell, Hayden, Cameron, Presley, Danny, Lindsey, and Jeanine. Their spouses, Jenny, Allison, Amy and Nathan, as well as future spouses, Bethany and Russ. His sister Irene Redmond and cousin Billy Pressley. Recognizing Lamar's deceased family would be important to him: Mother Lillian Melson, Father Roy Moore, and deceased siblings James Gilley, Frank Gilley, Edward Gilley, and Barbara Thrower. Finally, a man of unwavering faith and strength, Lamar lived a life marked by courage and loyalty. While his tough exterior was undeniable, his heart was filled with boundless love for his God, Eleanor, his family, and his friends. He cherished his role as a father and grandfather, and his compassion and loyalty to his beloved wife, Eleanor, of 69 years, is something to be written about. Though he may not have expressed his emotions freely, Lamar's unwavering loyalty and protective nature were evident to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. Lamar is someone that should be celebrated. Brave in life and brave to the end. A true American Hero. The graveside service is Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Oak Hill Cemetery, 96 Jefferson Street, in Newnan. A Celebration of Life will also be held Sunday, August 4th, 2024 at 1:30 pm at Gwinnett Church of Christ, 1736 Sever Road, Lawrenceville, GA In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Georgia Agape at 3094 Mercer University Drive, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30341. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.mckoon.com. "A champion doesn't become a champion in the ring, he's merely recognized in the ring. His "becoming" happens during his daily routine." -Joe Louis McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory 770-253-4580

Lamar A. Melson

December 24, 1932 - July 25, 2024