Melvin R. Laughlin, 88, of Van Alstyne, Texas went to be with his Lord and savior Jesus Christ on October 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Melvin was born on September 13, 1938, in Vidor, Texas to Sidney and Amy Laughlin and was the youngest of four children. He served in the Air Force in the Air Police in England, being honorably discharged in 1960. Melvin had a strong work ethic, performing many jobs to provide for his family including longshore and iron work. Ultimately, Melvin had long career as an industrial mechanic for Texaco, retiring in 1994.

Melvin had a quick wit, sharp mind, easy sense of humor, generous nature, and was an excellent storyteller. He was never one to shirk his responsibilities, was plain spoken, and was a “means what he says and says what he means” type of man. Words used to describe Melvin were “larger than life” and “true grit.” He was a problem-solver, could fix anything, and was extremely patient while he worked out problems or puzzles. He was John Wayne meets the Marlboro Man. He was devoted to his family, a hero to his children, and loved by so many.

Melvin was a daily Bible-reader, and he loved his Lord. He was quick to pray for anyone in need. He had a profound interest in Texas history, especially the Texas Rangers. Melvin was fascinated with coins and could tell you everything about them just by looking at them. He was an avid metal detector, keen to search for a piece of history and often finding one. Melvin was a long-time member of and office holder in the Brazoria County Artifacts and Recovery Club. More recently, Melvin developed an ardent interest in Biblical Archeology. He enjoyed being in nature, especially at the beach. He was an avid fisherman and spent many hours at the Gulf fishing with his beloved wife Shirley. He loved dogs, especially, of late, his buddy Gracie. We will miss his strong hugs, big laugh, and warm smile.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings Nathan Laughlin and Sharon Collett, as well as his wife Shirley, son Jeffrey Laughlin, and step son-in-law Larry Avants. Melvin is survived by his son James (Krystin) Laughlin, daughter Cathryn (Tony) Paton; stepchildren Jeffery (Terri) Cross, Vicky Avants, and Cheryl (David) Klaiber; grandchildren Samuel, James, and Sarah Paton, Kaleb Laughlin, Paul (Victoria) Fleming; step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren Keith (Elvie) and Scott (Michelle) Avants, Michelle and Sean (Holly) Klaiber, Jeffery Wayne Cross, Amanda (Seth) Marshall, Danica Cross, Sidney and Madison Avants, CJ Avants, Cort (Cadence) Avants, Ashton and Parker Klaiber, Cassy (Blake) Hunter, Miranda (Chris) Beck, and numerous other family members.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, Texas. Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Melvin will be buried with military honors. Pallbearers will be Samuel Paton, James Paton, Kaleb Laughlin, Scott Avants, Keith Avants, and Sean Klaiber. Honorary pallbearers will be James Laughlin, Tony Paton, Jeffery Cross, David Klaiber, Paul Fleming, CJ Avants, and Cort Avants.