James Lee Meloy

Funeral service for Chelsea resident, James Meloy, was Wednesday, February 8, 2017, at 2 p.m. at Chelsea First Baptist Church. Burial followed at Winganon Cemetery under the direction of Chelsea Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
James passed away at his home in Chelsea on Sunday, February 5, 2017, at the age of 65.
James was born at home on December 4, 1951, in Caney Kansas. His parents were Kenneth and Wyona (Smith) Meloy. As a child, he traveled often with his parents to the west coast, following the harvest. He received his education in Caney, Kansas, as well as in Arkansas. He eventually moved back to Caney, where he met Jaunetta Kay Wooten. They were married on May 29, 1970 in Caney, and made their home in the Chelsea area.
Most of James’ working career was as a mechanic. He began working for Jack Kissee Ford in 1972, where he remained for 18 years. After that he worked as a mechanic for Rogers County District 1 for 19 years, retiring in 2010. James was often known to help others in need of his mechanical skills, without expecting anything in return. He also built a race car in his spare time.
In 1992, James and Kay bought a place in Alluwe, where James enjoyed working with cattle and horses, and trail riding. For several years, they hosted a big Fourth of July bash that was enjoyed by many family members and friends. James loved to ride motorcycles, and also bowhunt and fish, especially with trot lines. But his greatest enjoyment was spending time with family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Gene and Bill Meloy, sister, Nancy Taton, and daughter, Tina Meloy Bates.
Survivors included his wife Kay, children, Keith and wife Angie Meloy, and Christie and husband Eric Hillsberry, all of Chelsea, and Kyle and wife Sasha Meloy of Claremore, son-in-law, Darrin Bates, grandchildren, Dylan Nichols, Colton Meloy, Katelen Nichols, Kristen Meloy, Ariana Meloy, and Wyatt Meloy, and great-granddaughter Alias June Spears.

View James’ tribute and share memories at www.mmsfuneralhomes.com