James E. "Jim" Melton, 72, of Washington, passed away at 7:05 pm Thursday, May 14, 2020 at his home with his family by his side. He was born January 27, 1948 in Galesburg, IL to Charles "Chuck" and Shirley Welsh Melton. He married Constance M. "Connie" Kuschel on October 25, 1969 in Cook County, IL. She survives. Also surviving are two sons, Michael (Amie) Melton of Washington, Bradley (Bonny) Melton of Springfield; three grandchildren, Ashley Melton, Ryan Melton, Jacob Stoffle; sister, Linda (Carl) Baker of PO Box 364 London Mills, IL 61544; and niece, Laurie Vancil of Galesburg. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sharon Vancil Swigart; and nephew, Stephen Vancil. Jim was a proud United States Army Vietnam Veteran. He worked at Caterpillar Inc. as a machine operator and later in management before retiring in 2000 after 37 years of service. Jim enjoyed sports and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Per his wishes cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service with face coverings and social distancing will be at 6pm Thursday, August 13, 2020 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. Family will receive friends 2 hours prior to the service on Thursday from 4 to 6pm at the funeral home. A graveside service with military honors will be at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield on Friday, August 14th at 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Illinois Cancer Care or American Diabetes Association.