Melvin Dale Clanton

Melvin Dale Clanton, 80, stepped into eternity on July 3, 2018 in Dallas, TX. He was born on August 7th, 1937 near Caldwell, TX to David James Clanton and Virginia Ruth Denman.
Living on his own since his teenage years, he graduated from Austwell-Tivola High School in 1955 and joined the United States Air Force. He served 4 years as a motion picture technologist. Upon returning to civilian life, he married his childhood sweetheart, Thresa Irene Leddon, whom he'd known since he was 10 years old. They married on June 17, 1961 and resided in Austin, TX. He completed his Bachelor's in Business Administration during the early years of their marriage and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1965. He went to work for the then Texas State Board of Insurance as an insurance clerk. He retired as the manager of the Licensing Division at the age of 55.
On June 17, 1968, seven years into their happily ever after, they adopted and brought home their first daughter, Dana Mauryne. They adopted their second bundle of joy, Laura Lynn, who arrived September 18, 1971. Their family was complete.
Melvin lived a quiet life of family, work and service. He was a member of the Austin Exchange Club for over 40 years dedicated to serving young people, assisting them with education opportunities. His mild mannered character and wry sense of humor belied an inner strength and a fierce protector of those he loved. He was well respected in the community all the way from the Texas Governor's Mansion, to his fellow employees, to his family, friends and neighbors to those he served in church and through the exchange club. Upon retirement, he enjoyed golfing, reading, traveling and cooking (especially desserts).
He is preceded in death by his parents, David James Clanton and Virginia Ruth Denman, his sister, Gladys Cazey and brother, James Clanton.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Thresa Irene Clanton; daughter Dana Mauryne Turman and her husband, Travis Lee Turman; daughter Laura Lynn Clanton and her significant other,Brandon Heath Brown; grandson Andrew Stephen Turman and his wife Hannah Marie Turman; grandson, Clayton Glenn Brown.
A loving husband. A wonderful father. A loyal friend. The world is a better place having had Melvin Dale Clanton in it.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be sent to Cal Farley's Boys Ranch. https://www.calfarley.org/waystogive/