Melvin Blount Joyner, along with his twin Marlin, was born to Ray and Leola Joyner at their home in Wills Point, Texas, on January 28, 1941, but grew up and attended school in nearby Edgewood where he remained in close touch with classmates of his HS Class of ‘59.  After graduation from East Texas State University, Mel served at Fort Knox with the Army National Guard, and ultimately enjoyed a 36 year career in industrial and broadcast video sales with ECI Video in Dallas.

Mel’s early journey of faith had its start at home and grew through his attendance at the Edgewood Methodist Church, and became the foundation for his adulthood decision to recommit his life to following Jesus Christ.  That decision led him to First Methodist Carrollton in 1976 where Mel met and married Patsy and became an instant father to her two young sons, Kirby and Stuart.

Mel took his first breath in heaven on March 7, 2025, at UTSW Clements University Hospital.  Blessed to have survived and enjoy a wonderful life since a heart attack and bypass surgery 29 years ago, and thankful again to receive the very best of care from the surgical and ICU teams at Clements for an infection at the site of his defibrillator, we believe that Mel’s heart and soul were in perfect peace as he was ushered into the presence of the Lord.   We can only imagine hearing Mel’s “yeehaw” echoing around the throne!

Mel is survived by his wife Patsy; his sons and daughters in law Kirby and Jan Harris, and Stuart and Nancy Harris; grandchildren Shelby and Ty Stannard, Connor and Shuo Harris, Cade Harris, Hallie Harris, and Naomi Harris; great-granddaughters Scout and McLean Stannard; brother Roger Joyner;  and nieces, nephews, other family members and friends who were dear to him.  His sister Raenona Franklin and twin brother Marlin are among other loved ones who preceded him in death.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for donations in Mel’s memory to First Methodist Carrollton, 2201 E. Hebron Parkway, Carrollton, TX  75010.