J oseph Stephen "Steve" Melton, 77, of Paris, Illinois passed away on Monday, June 13, 2022, surrounded by his children. He was a devoted father, accomplished businessman, and avid community servant. Steve grew up near Oliver, Illinois with his parents Ellis and Mary, and three siblings. As a child, he attended St Mary's Catholic Church; later he was an active congregant of First Assembly of God in Paris. Steve attended St Mary's School and then Paris High School. He was a mechanic for many years and worked at the Paris Honda Shop until 1975 when Steve started Melton Construction, which he owned and operated before retiring in 2010.

Steve was active in all-facets of Boy Scouting for over 30 years.  He was a leader for Cub Scout Pack 182, Webelos Den 182, and Boy Scout Troop 295. He ensured the upkeep of Black Hawk Park and participated as a troop committee member. Through the intervening years, Steve guided countless young men through the values of scouting, including several towards the pinnacle of Eagle Scout. Steve received numerous awards for his longevity, service, and dedication to scouting's ideals including the Silver Beaver Award.

The youngest of four children, Steve was born on January 14, 1945. He was a caring father to sons Joseph Stephen Jr. (deceased) (Karen Miles-Melton), Timothy Todd (Karen), Damon (Samantha), Jason (Heather), Christopher (Jodie), and Dustin. He was also a father figure to his nephew Allen and niece Trina (Daniel). Steve is survived by his grandchildren: Sarah, Elizabeth, Allison Paige, Nicholas, Ethan, Sydney, Tristan, Alexa, Emily, and Scott. He also leaves behind his sister Virginia and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jim, his sister Ruth, and his oldest son, Joe.

Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 pm on Monday, June 20 th at Stewart and Carroll Funeral Home, 303 East Wood Street in Paris. Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, June 21 st at Stewart and Carroll, with Christian burial to follow at Vermilion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Boy Scout Troop 295.

For more information and online condolences please go to www.stewartandcarrollfuneralhome.com