Melvin "Mel" Lee Hartley, Jr.

Melvin (Mel) Lee Hartley Jr. , 81,  passed away on June 12, 2020 in Waco, Texas. His celebration memorial will be announced  at a later date due to risks of travel and social gatherings at this time.

Melvin was born on October 24, 1938  in El Paso, Texas to parents Marie Herring Hartley and Melvin Lee Hartley Sr. He was the oldest of 3 sons.  He worked his way thru College at the University of Texas At El Paso receiving a Bachelor in Business. Melvin then enlisted  in the Army for 2 yrs. and was  stationed at Fort Chaffee, Ark.   Following his 2 yrs. there, he went to work at State Farm Insurance as a claims adjuster where he retired after 36 years of service with them.

Melvin enjoyed many hobbies over the years.  His latest hobby was drawing portraits and he was very good at it.  He enjoyed wood carving, bird watching and astronomy. He enjoyed playing bridge and traveling.  One of his favorite hobbies was photography. He started with film and converted one bathroom of our home into a dark room.  Melvin loved reading and was well versed on a number of topics.  Melvin will be remembered for the  generosity and kindness he showed  to others.

Melvin is survived by his daughter Julie Sharp and husband Tom of Hewitt , brother Richard Hartley and wife Rose of Robinson and brother Eugene Hartley of Houston. His grandchildren Tommy Sharp Jr. and wife Kasey, Michael Sharp and fiancé Katelyn of Hewitt, Heather Travers and husband Craig of Waco, Ashley Grant and husband Damon Jr , Nicholas Hartley of Houston, many great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. His favorite companion, Haley (cat).   Melvin was preceded in death by his son John (Chris) Christopher Hartley and his mother and father, Marie Herring Hartley and Melvin Lee Hartley Sr.