Melvin L. Carlton

Melvin L. Carlton, 66, of Davenport, Iowa, died Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at home.

Services to honor and celebrate Melvin's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 4, 2024, at the Third Missionary Baptist Church, 222 West 14^th Street, Davenport, Iowa, with The Rev. Rogers Kirk officiating. Prior to the service, visitation will be held for one hour. Following the service, cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, under the compassionate direction of Trimble Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the family for a fund to be established in Melvin’s memory.

Melvin Louis Carlton was born April 17, 1957, in Cairo, Illinois, the son of Jimmy and Justine (Randolph) Carlton.  He married Ora White on April 21, 2006.  Previously, he had been married to Jacqueline Hodges.  

Melvin was a man of simple pleasures and profound love for his family. He found joy and fulfillment in his work as a janitor, a profession he dedicated most of his life to. Melvin's commitment to his job was evident in the care and diligence he put into his work each day, earning him the respect and admiration of those around him.

A man of faith, Melvin was an active member of the Third Missionary Baptist Church in Davenport. He served diligently as the church's janitor, contributing his time and effort to the upkeep of the sacred space where he found solace and community.

In his leisure time, Melvin enjoyed the company of his loved ones, engaging in spirited games of cards, where his skill in Tunk often left his opponents in awe. He also found joy in the simple pleasure of riding his bicycle, relishing the freedom and tranquility it offered him.  However, his deepest joy and devotion were always reserved for his family, particularly his cherished grandchildren.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Ora Carlton; three children, Justine (Marcell) Kirk, Joseph Carlton, and Denise Carlton, all of Davenport; grandchildren, Nia, Naima and Naija Kirk, Kari, Jaheim, Javin and Deago Carlton, Kassiyah, Avyana and Antinio Horn, and Jakai, Jacari, Jacarion and Jaqueen Pendleton; two sisters, Ida West and Lille Hopkins; three brothers, Johnnie, Sylvester and Jimmy (Linda) Carlton; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.   He was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Justine Carlton; brothers, Frankie Carlton, Willie Carlton, Billie Joe Carlton, Henry Carlton, Norman Ray Cartlon; and sisters, Geraldine Nelson and Mae Frances Kenny

The family invites friends to share stories and condolences at TrimbleFuneralHomes.com.