Robert Wade Melton

McMinnville, TN resident and Warren County, TN native Robert Wade Melton, age 81, was born August 25, 1944 and died November 15, 2025 at Alive Hospice in Murfreesboro, TN following a brief illness.

Wade was a nurseryman, transportation broker and longtime member of Shellsford Baptist Church where he was born again in the fall of 1980. His recent home church was Eastside Baptist Church. He was the son of the late Robert and Thelma Nelson Melton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Michael Melton; father-in-law and mother-in-law, John L. and Lois Cartwright; daughter-in-law, Sherry Melton and nephews, Craig Melton and Eli Brown.

He was married to Ann Cartwright Melton of McMinnville on December 18, 1971. In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughter, Leticia Johnson Smartt (Sean Taylor) of McMinnville, TN; sons, Travis Melton and Josh (Peggy) Melton, both of McMinnville, TN; granddaughter, Dallis Melton; great-grandson, Will Thomas; grandchildren, Jonie Smartt and Matthew, Joseph, Cody, Austin and Matti Melton; brother, Barry (Gail) Melton of McMinnville, TN; sisters-in-law, Jackie (Pat) Brown of McMinnville, TN and Sherry Cartwright (Curt Schumacher) of Ft. Worth, TX; brother-in-law, Jeff (Kim) Cartwright of McMinnville, TN and several nieces and nephews.

Wade raised game chickens and loved coon hunting, golfing, fishing and attending the children’s ball games. He also enjoyed spending time with friends, family and vacationing.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 20, 2025 at Shellsford Baptist Church with Jeff Lance, Gene McClure and D.J. Willis officiating. Burial will follow at Shellsford Cemetery in Warren County, TN. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at High’s and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at the church.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.