Darrel Bruce Melton

 Darrel Bruce “ Koolaid” Melton, age 79, of Etowah, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday evening, January 28, 2017, at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville. Born on November 21, 1937 in the Coghill Community to the late Raymond and Nora Catherine Mull Melton, Koolaid was a native and lifelong resident of McMinn County and member of Coghill Baptist Church. Darrel was an amazing husband, father grandfather, brother, and uncle. He loved of his family dearly along with all his fishing and railroad buddies. He never met a stranger and could carry on a conversation with anyone, and with a quick sense of humor. He was retired from CSX Railroad after 30 years of service. He was also proud to serve for seven years in the Tennessee National Guard. Koolaid loved all sports, especially Tennessee Football and Basketball and was an avid fisherman.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Brenda Smith Melton; son and daughter-in-law, Brandon and Stacey Melton; two precious grandsons, William and Phillip Melton who were the sunshine of his life; brother-in-law, Larry and Carolyn Smith ; sister-in-law, Pauline Melton of Minnesota; sisters, Dot Durham of Chattanooga and Judy Chadd of Chattanooga;  nieces and nephews, Cindy Dailey, Jason  Smith of Etowah ; Jerry Wade of Chattanooga, Kim Wooten of Chattanooga, A.J. Price of Chattanooga, special  Connor Dailey of Lenoir City; and Goddaughter Dee Maddron and Joyce Roderick and her  family.

 Thank You Koolaid for loving us and being the kind and gentle soul that you were. Most of all thank you Lord for blessing our lives by having him in them. We will love you forever and always.

 At Mr. Melton’s request, A graveside service will be held at 2p.m. on Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at Conasauga Cemetery with Minister Bill Corn officiating.

There will be no formal visitation at the funeral home.

 Flowers will be accepted or memorial contribution may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

We invite you to send a message of comfort and view the family guestbook at www.serenityfunerals.com

Serenity Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Etowah is in charge of arrangements.