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A resolution by the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court honoring the late VZC Pct. 2 Commissioner Virgil Melton Jr. was read by VZC Judge Andy Reese June 18 during the regular meeting of the commissioners’ court. The resolution reads as follows: ‘Whereas, the passing of a man of service and patriotism marks an important occasion for those he leaves behind which reminds them to gratefully recount the cherished memories and everlasting legacy of their colleague and friend; ‘Whereas, Virgil Melton Jr. will forever be remembered not only for his accomplishments as a VZC Commissioner, but more importantly, as a model citizen and elected representative who never wavered in his Christian duty to place the best interest of his family and his community above his own; and ‘Whereas, Commissioner Melton’s commitment to public service encapsulates his character, a man who loved with all of his strength, yet never required special recognition; and ‘Whereas, Virgil Melton Jr. was always proud to be a native- born Texan and was a graduate of Canton High School and was a proud of being a member of the 1964 undefeated, unscored- on football team during the regular season; and ‘Whereas, Virgil married his beloved wife, Janice Casey Melton, on November 5, 1977, they then raised their son, Chase Melton, as well as having a major hand in raising their nephew and nieces; and ‘Whereas, Virgil was chosen by his constituents to represent Precinct 2 on the VZC Commissioners Court in November of 2006, taking office on January 1, 2007. He earned a reputation as an advocate for fiscal responsibility, constitutionalism, and personal liberty; and ‘Whereas, through 17 years of statesmanship on the court, Commissioner Melton placed VZC on a path toward continued success for our fellow citizens and now rests with our Lord; and ‘Whereas, prior to serving as Commissioner for VZC, Virgil was the Criminal District Courts’ Manager for Dallas County for 29 years, managing 17 Criminal District Courts; and ‘Whereas, Virgil was involved with the creation of the VZC Veterans Memorial in 2005 and has served on the board of directors ever since. Virgil served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Vietnam War as a tank commander, earning a Purple Heart and Navy Commendation Medal for valor; and ‘Therefore, Be It Resolved That we, the County Judge and the Commissioners of VZC, hereby recognize and honor the life achievements of Virgil Melton, Jr.
