Lyle “Henry” Melvin, 87, of Soldier, KS, passed away Friday, July 31, 2026 at his grandson’s home in Onaga, KS. He was born November 22, 1938 in America City, KS, the son of Homer Jackson and Mildred L. (McClain) Melvin.

          Henry graduated from Corning High School in 1957. He was a life-long farmer and helped with maintenance for the oil wells in Nemaha County. For many years he took much pride in the America City Cemetery as sexton, bookkeeper, marking graves and upkeep.

          He was a member of the Corning Trinity United Methodist Church and serving on the church men’s club.

          Henry was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa. He enjoyed hunting coyotes, coons, quail and pheasants. Also, playing cards, working in the garden and spending time with family on the front porch where him and Nelda would watch the birds.

          Henry married Nelda Karen Steele on February 9, 1958 in Corning, KS. They celebrated over 68 years of marriage. She preceded him in death on July 7, 2026. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Mildred Melvin; son, Kenneth L. Melvin; brother, Robert L. Melvin and infant great-granddaughter, Timberlee Faye Melvin.

          Survivors include his 3 grandsons, Steven Lyle Melvin (Cammie) of Randolph, KS, Jeremy Lee Melvin (Emily) of Soldier, KS and Brendan Lane Melvin (Bailey Baker) of Topeka, KS; daughter-in-law, Denise L. Melvin of Onaga, KS and 4 great-grandchildren, Hannah Elizabeth, Henry Dean, Jackson Lyle and Hayslee Jane Melvin.

           Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 7, 2026 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at America City Cemetery. Family will greet friends 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to Steven Melvin designated for headstone restoration at America City Cemetery c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.