Nealy Vonlee Melvin

Nealy V. Melvin, age 69, of Carterville, Illinois,  passed away Monday, November 6, 2023 at Carbondale Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, Illinois.

Nealy was born November 20, 1953 in Benton, Illinois, a son of Jack and Ida Sue (Mandrell)  Melvin.  He grew up in Thompsonville, IL, and in his teenage years his family moved to Chicago, Illinois.  It was there he met his wife and he married the love of his life, Judy Wunsh on November 20, 1971 in Chicago, Illinois.  Shortly after they married they moved back to Southern Illinois in the Herrin area.  He worked as a self employed contractor and deeply enjoyed carpentry.  Nealy played Bass Guitar, enjoyed reading Louis L'Amour novels, and spending time at area casino's.  He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  The death of his wife in 2018 left a hole in his life and he truly missed her.  

He is survived by three children, Tara L. Melvin of Clearwater, FL, Leslie A. Morris of Steinhatcheee, FL, and Aaron J. (Emily) Melvin of Energy, IL; five grandchildren, Callon, Amberly, Nathan, Jayne, and Henry; two great-grandchildren, Lincoln and Lucas; and three siblings, Sharon Davis of Conyers, GA, Jim Miller of Chicago, IL, and Dale Melvin of Herrin, IL.  He is preceded in death by his wife Judy Melvin; his parents, Jack and Ida Sue Melvin; and two siblings, Sandra Schoonheart and Richard Miller.

Graveside services will be held Monday, November 13, 2023, 10:00 AM at Plasters Grove Cemetery in Thompsonville, Illinois with Rev. Keith Owens officiating. Burial will follow at Plasters Grove Cemetery.