Melvin Ottis Wilkins completed his earthly journey on Oct. 13, 2026. He was born Feb. 4, 1928, to Carlton and Bessie Wilkins in Pilot Point, Texas. He is preceded in death by brothers James and Glen and sister Louise Gray. He is survived by his brother Tommy.
During Melvin’s childhood, he lived in Texas and Oklahoma and was provided an abundance of family gatherings, hard work and great times. Melvin joined the military in 1948, where he would serve eight years. While stationed at the Yakima Firing Range, he met the love of his life, LoVysa Hurst, whom he married on May 12, 1950. They moved to Texas and started their family: Melba Baker (d. 2/18/2017), Christine Wilkins, Patricia Asplund (d. 3/10/2000), Virginia Davis, Melvin Mark and Alan.
Melvin was active in the Baptist church for his entire life, with deep roots in his faith. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping and exploring the outdoors. A visit with him was an opportunity to listen to the many stories he loved to share. He retired from the Washington State Highway Department in Chehalis, Washington, in 1990.
LoVysa passed away in 2008, after 58 years of marriage. Surviving Melvin are four of his six children, 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
He will be remembered as a loving, honest, generous man.
No service is scheduled at this time; however, a family gathering will be held in the future to celebrate a long life well lived.
