Charles (Charlie) Thomas Melton, Sr., 90 years young, of Norris City, clocked in at the Pearly Gates at midnight sharp on the morning of January 7th, 2022. He was on time and prepared for eternity, and his shift will never expire. Many friends, family members, and fellow Christians mourn his passing. Charles Melton tried to follow the credo, "Leave it a little better". He said when he left anything, he tried to leave it a little better than it was before he was there. After his long battle with diabetes and kidney disease, Charlie cleared out of this mortal life at Aperion Healthcare in Fairfield, Illinois. Charlie Melton Sr. was born and raised in Herald, Illinois. He went into the Air Force in 1949 and was trained as a radio mechanic. He spent the majority of his 4 year term in the Hurricane Hunters in Bermuda. Charlie worked as an electrician, and was an officer in the Boilermaker's Union. He worked at B and W, and helped build the power plant at Clinton, Illinois. Charlie previously lived in Farmer City where he became the supervisor of the city electrical department. He served as President of the Illinois Municipal Utility Association. He was very active in the American Legion and local politics. After retirement he moved back to Norris City, where he could be seen riding his red scooter all over town. He was a Deacon at the Norris City General Baptist Church. Charles Thomas Melton Sr. is survived by his sons, Charles Thomas (Jeanette) Melton, Jr. of Norris City and Harold Guy (Diane) Melton of Round Rock, Texas. He has 8 Grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Charlie is also survived by his sisters Anna Lu Fulkerson of Carmi and Lola Cummings of Valley, Nebraska, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He also leaves behind special friend, confidante, and sister in Christ, Sharon Browning, along with her grandson Grayson. Charles Melton Sr. was preceded in death by his wife, Rosetta Ann Melton, parents Pauline (Poole) Melton and Julian Guy (Jack) Melton, and his brothers Clyde (Rusty) Melton and Bobby Melton. His mentor and favorite uncle, Theron (Lunger) Melton, also preceded him in death. Beck Memorial Home in Bloomington is in charge of arrangements. Interment will be at Danville National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorial contributions to the Norris City General Baptist Church or to the church or veterans association of your choice. Charles is gone now, but he did leave it a little better.