Raymond Darrell Mellinger
May 3, 1934 — January 21, 2015
Raymond Darrell Mellinger, 80 , of Lawrence, died peacefully on Wednesday, January 21, 2015, family by his side. Known as Darrell by his friends and family. Darrell was born May 3, 1934 in Danville, IL, to Cloyd Bishop and Emma Faye (Herr) Mellinger.
He graduated from Attica High School in 1952, where he discovered his love for High School and College Basketball, becoming a lifelong IU fan. He married the love of his life on September 23, 1955 , Carolyn Sue (Smith) Mellinger who survives him. He is also survived by his sisters Mildred Jeanette Koleczek, of Witchita, Kansas and Carol Jean Snider of Lafayette, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 brothers. He is also survived by his son, Darrell (Connie) Mellinger, Farmersburg, Daughters Judy Mellinger, Kelli (Mike) Lair, Peggy Darlington, Grandsons Derrick Mellinger, Brandon Mellinger ( Barbara Hawkins), Rance (Danko) Mellinger, Phillip Darlington (Kacie Vanblaricum), Trevor (Emily) Lynch, Derrill Gates, Grandaughters Sunny Howard, Amy (Justin) Williams, Alison Lynch, Chelsea Simer ( Michael Self), Lacey Akers, and Lexus Staten. Greatgrandsons Elijah Gates, Gage Vaughn, and Kalib Darlington, Sawyer Mellinger, Briar Mellinger, Caleb Mellinger, Oliver Lynch, Silas Self, and his soon to be born greatgrandson. Greatgrandaughters Marleigh Lynch-Willis, Serenity Akers-Stubbs, Sarina Gates, Aniyah Scott, Kinsley Emmons, Aleigha Mellinger, Cailyn Self, Audrita Lynch, and soon to be born greatgrandaughter. And many, many nieces and nephews.
He was a member of the Frankfort Masonic Lodge. He retired from Thomson Consumer Electronics (RCA) in 1999. After retiring he enjoyed his part time job at Ft Harrison State Park. He enjoyed camping and fishing and spent most of his time with his grandkids and greatgrandkids. He was always there for anyone who needed him.
There will be a private family service at a later date.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrier Project, Indianapolis Police Foundation or the American Lung Association.
Arrangements entrusted to Bell Mortuary & Crematory, Royster-Askin-Sandrock Chapel.