Clarence Ervin Melton, 74, of Clover, died at his residence on Sunday, June 14, 2009.

He was a native of Rutherford County, N. C., and son of the late Jesse William and Dora Gladys Philbeck Melton.

Mr. Melton was a retired truck driver with Reliable Tank Lines. He was a member of Narrow Way Full Gospel Church and a member of G.W.R.R.A.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Letha Norwood Melton, two sons, Ronnie Ervin Melton and wife Cynthia of Gastonia, N.C., and Robert Wayne Melton, Sr. of Blacksburg; one daughter, Sharon Elaine Melton of Clover; five grandchildren, Ronnie Philip Melton and Christopher David Melton of Gastonia, Richard Michael Price of Cherryville, N.C., Shane Issac Price and wife Coley of Clover, Robert Wayne Melton, Jr. and wife Angela of Kings Mountain; eleven great grandchildren; two brothers, Harley Melton and wife Frances of Kings Mountain, James Melton and wife Linda of Hickory, N.C.; and nine nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as four brothers, Walter Melton, Charles Melton, Jack Melton and Larry Melton.

The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Carothers Funeral Home in Gastonia.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m Wednesday at The Colonial Chapel of Carothers Funeral Home with the Revs. John Gilreath and Bill Day officiating.

Interment will be at Westview Gardens in Bessemer City, N.C.

The family requests that memorials be made to Hospice and Community Care, P. O. Box 993, Rock Hill, S. C. 29732.

Email condolences to carothersfh@aol.com Attn: Melton family; or sign the guest book at www.mem.com

Carothers Funeral Home of Gastonia, N.C. is serving the family.