Charles E. Melton

Charles Edison Melton, known to all as “Eddie,” passed away on November 17, 2025, at the age of 86 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Born on May 29, 1939, in Chester, South Carolina, and raised in nearby Rock Hill, Eddie lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep loyalty, and unwavering devotion to his family.

A proud veteran of both the United States Air Force and the United States Army, Eddie carried his service with honor throughout his life. His love for his country and his pride in being a veteran were defining parts of who he was.

Eddie spent the majority of his career at Celanese in Rock Hill, where he retired as a Maintenance Engineering Specialist. One of his greatest professional accomplishments was serving as a supervisor for PBI Corporation, a division of Celanese, where he helped develop and produce fire-resistant fibers used to protect astronauts and firefighters. His dedication and expertise earned him numerous certifications and recognitions throughout his career. He also later received a medical retirement from Lowe’s.

At just 18 years old, Eddie married the love of his life, Elaine Glenn. They were one week shy of celebrating their 68th wedding anniversary on November 24. Their marriage was a testament to commitment, faithfulness, and partnership. Elaine and their daughter Ellie were lovingly by his side as he passed.

Eddie was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Henry Melton and Marie Rodgers. Much of his childhood was spent in an orphanage, but he was deeply supported and loved by his aunt, Mildred Nunnery, whose care helped shape his life.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Elaine; his four children, Ellie Taylor, Bryant Melton, Scott Melton, and Ikey Melton; and seven grandchildren: Malerie Taylor, Lincoln Taylor, Catherine Melton, Amanda Melton, Ashley Self, Christy Booty, and Tyler Melton and 8 great grandchildren. His grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy—they lit up his life in ways they never fully realized. He is also survived by his loyal Boxer, Roxie who was his cherished companion and brought him great comfort and joy.

A South Carolinian for nearly 60 years, Eddie was a lifelong Gamecock fan. Yet after his daughter attended the University of Tennessee, he proudly cheered on the Volunteers, happily wearing Tennessee orange.

Eddie’s final days followed surgery to repair a broken hip, with complications affecting his lungs. Even in his last moments, he showed the same determination and quiet strength that defined his life. Hardworking, humble, and devoted, his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Mynatt Funeral Home, Fountain City Chapel. Visitation for family and friends will take place from 4:00–6:00 p.m., with a service to follow, officiated by Pastor A.C. Cooper.
Family and friends will meet at 11:30am on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Mynatt Funeral Home, Fountain City Chapel to go in procession to East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery-John Sevier, located at 2200 E Governor John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920, for a 12:30pm graveside service with full military honors. The military honor guard will serve as pallbearers.

Eddie’s steadfast love, gentle spirit, and quiet impact will be forever remembered.