Donny Ray "Salty" Melton

Donny Ray Melton, better known as “Salty,” 71 of Madill, Oklahoma, passed away at his home in Madill, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. He was born on July 5, 1954, to the late James Ray Melton and Katherine Bernice Davis Melton. Salty was a true hometown boy. Raised in Madill, where he spent his entire life in the community he loved and called home. The values he learned growing up in Marshall County—hard work, faithfulness, and dedication to family—guided him throughout his life.

Salty’s work ethic was evident from an early age. He worked for local sale barns, later for Hartin’s Welding, and spent 32 years with Lance Corporation. Never one to sit still, he also worked his ranch and farmed, taking great pride in caring for his cattle and the land he loved. For the past 15 years, he faithfully served the citizens of Marshall County as District 1 County Commissioner, a position he held with pride and commitment. He genuinely cared about the people he represented and worked tirelessly to make his community a better place.

When he wasn’t working, Salty could often be found outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, bird hunting, and spending time on the ranch. Above all else, he loved his family and faithful dogs that brought him joy.

He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, service, and devotion to family.

Salty is survived by

Children: Salty Don Melton and wife Janie of Madill, Oklahoma

Pepper Ray Melton and Exa Jane of Madill, Oklahoma

Jana Goff of Durant, Oklahoma

9 grandchildren: Harlie Don Reeves and husband Josh, Hayle Nicole Tabor and husband Jordan,

John Dillon Melton, Landon Cole Melton, Kyann Nick Bragg and husband Bo,

Riggin Ray Melton and wife Jannah, Emery Jane Melton, Trevor Goff and wife Alea, and Trenton Goff

5 great-grandchildren: Rowdy, Blakely, Owen, Ridge, and Taylyn

Sister: Susan Choate and husband Willis of Marietta, Oklahoma

The mother of his children, Dana Melton of Madill, Oklahoma

Son-in-law: Tim Goff of Madill, Oklahoma.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Danny K. “Dan” Melton and David Melton.

Salty will be remembered as a man who loved his hometown, treasured his family, worked hard every day, and never forgot the value of a handshake and a helping hand.

Casket Bearers: Trevor Goff, Riggin Melton, Trenton Goff, Landon Melton, Tim Goff and Nick Hartin

Memorials may be made to the Marshall County Jr. Livestock Association, Po Box 345, Madill, Ok 73446