Melvin C. Talley lost his battle with Parkinson’s at the age of 77 on Aug. 19, 2012, but became the victor as he walked upright to his eternal reward.  

After 58 years of marriage, he is survived by his wife, Wanda Nell Talley; his four children and their spouses, Bonnie and Stan Turner, Phil and Kathy Talley, Judy and Marvin Faldon and Keith Talley; 14 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Gene Fennell; and brothers Charles, Roy, and Tom Talley; his brother and sisters-in-law, Earl and Kay Hays and Iris and Guiseppe Savio; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind countless friends whose lives he touched with his sense of humor, quick wit, and ready smile.

He moved his family from Brownfield, Texas, to Garland in 1966. He retired as a Field Supervisor from Brandt Engineering. He was an accomplished refrigeration engineer, an electrician, mechanic, and carpenter.  If it was broke, he’d fix it. And if it wasn’t broke, he’d take it apart! He was a member of the Wylie Church of Christ, an Eagle Scout, 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, and an avid fisherman.

He instilled in his grandchildren the advice, “Going fishing isn’t only about catching the fish, it’s about enjoying life. Keep the faith … the Fishing Faith!”

Services were held at Restland Memorial Chapel at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 23, 2012 .

Arrangements were under the direction of Restland Funeral Home.