Michael Melton

CHARLESTON - Michael “Mikey” Deon Melton, 52, of Charleston passed onto a better life Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.

Mikey was born November 27, 1974 in Mattoon, Illinois. Through adoption, he found his home in Charleston, Illinois.

Mikey is survived by his sisters, Mercee Munster, Bobbi (Chris) Leonard, Tracy Leonard, Ruthie Leonard, all of IL, and Felicia Mallard, TX; Honorary sisters, Trisha (Casey) Story, Samantha Hallowell, and Laurie (Jack) Baker, all of IL, Nieces and nephews, Taryn (Dillon) Young, CO, and Corrie (Noah) Leonard, IL; He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins whom he held close, as well as many other roommates and very close friends at CTF Illinois.

Mikey is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Lucretia Leonard; and brother, Ted Melton.

Anyone who knew Mikey would find a great comfort in him- his humility, humor, and ability to love deeply and wordlessly were of his greatest qualities.

His favorite things in this world were an old telephone to make business calls with, a stack of newspaper that became office work to him, and a PB&J made by himself because no one could do it better.

In his childhood and up until adulthood, Mikey participated avidly in the Special Olympics. He won multiple awards in both the softball throw event and the 50-meter dash. He enjoyed spending time outdoors during the summers of his life at Camp New Hope in Neoga, Illinois.

No one who knew Mikey will ever forget him. He will be deeply missed by all.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. No burial services will be held. Arrangements: Harper-Swickard

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Special Olympics or Camp New Hope.

Special Olympics:

https://support.specialolympics.org/a/athlete-fund-pm-2?gclsrc=aw.ds&&sourceid=1051473&ms=january2025-pmax&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23419868126&gclid=CjwKCAjw857RBhAgEiwAI-1yKFUeT4k23EDTuv2HbHlO1XRj02-QShtsyX2h1jNdlWzdPZTQ2MdYshoC-iAQAvD_BwE

Camp New Hope:

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=VLFNTY6FKAYD8