Melvin James Hyche's Obituary
Melvin James Hyche, beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, at the age of 73.
Melvin was born on February 14, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Jessie Joe and Margaret Hyche. He was raised in Cleveland alongside his younger sister, Lynette Hyche, and maintained a lifelong pride in his roots. He attended Cleveland State University, where he pursued his studies in Industrial Engineering, laying the foundation for a long and successful career.
As a young adult, Melvin moved to Dayton, Ohio, where he began his professional journey as an Industrial Engineer. He worked for both General Motors and Navistar, earning respect for his intelligence, discipline, and dedication. Later, he relocated to Arlington, Texas, where he continued his career at Lockheed Martin until his retirement.
In addition to his engineering career, Melvin had an entrepreneurial side that he nurtured with pride. Prior to retiring, he copyrighted several original phrases and successfully developed them into a business venture, reflecting his creativity and forward-thinking mindset. In his personal time, Melvin found joy in listening to jazz music and held a deep interest in financial wellness, valuing thoughtful planning, independence, and long-term stability.
Melvin was known for his quiet strength, thoughtful nature, and steady presence. He believed in hard work, integrity, and self-reliance, and he carried those values into every chapter of his life.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Voletta Gaston Hyche; his sister, Lynette Hyche; his stepchildren, Antoinette Gaston and Lamar Gaston (Jacqueline Gaston); his grandchildren, Rion Gaston Barnes, Alexis Welch Hoyos (Alejandro Hoyos), John Davis, DeShamar Gaston, and Loreal Gaston; and his great-granddaughter, Sage Ford. He also leaves behind his dear friends Ann Keith and David Horton, along with a host of extended family members and friends. He is also survived by his son, Delontae Smith, and grandchildren.
Melvin James Hyche will be remembered for his dedication, creativity, and quiet excellence. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service celebrating his life will be held on February 14, 2026, his birthday, a meaningful day to honor a life well lived. Melvin’s memorial service will be held at Chapel on the Lane located at 6213 Miller Lane, Dayton, Ohio 45414 from 12pm – 4pm.
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