GATESVILLE — Graveside services for Lavata “L.T.” Talmadge Melton, 91, of Gatesville will be 2 p.m. today at Salem-Irene Cemetery near Irene with the Rev. Nancy Schulsser officiating.

Mr. Melton, died Saturday at a Gatesville nursing home.

He was born to George Sabbath and Rosia McClesky Melton. He graduated from Irene High School. He attended Hill College. He entered the Air Force in 1943 and served in World War II as a 1st lieutenant in the 401st Bombardier Group, flying over 30 missions from England to Germany. After the service he worked in Dallas and later returned to the family farm in Irene. He later worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a field representative for the Soil Conservation Service in Ellis County. He moved to Gatesville in 2005. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Becky Melton.

Survivors are his wife, Vicki; a son, George Melton of Gatesville; and one grandchild.

Memorials may be made to the Salem-Irene Cemetery Association, PO Box 63, Irene 76650.

Gatesville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.