Obituary of Jimmie Ray Melhart

JIMMIE RAY MELHART On August 27, 2022, Jim Melhart passed away peacefully at the age of 78, surrounded by his wife and daughters. Jim was a pillar of the local community and music world for more than 50 years. Jim founded Melhart Music and grew it into one of the largest full line music instrument sales, repair, and manufacturing centers in the country, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for his work. He was an astute businessman and true innovator, holding 10 patents in the music industry. The family always joked that Jim wouldn't stop working until he died, and he lived up to that. He truly loved what he did and had no intention of giving it up. In addition to music, Jim had a wide array of hobbies including racing, boating, skiing, and mechanics, even qualifying for the World 600 NASCAR Race in Charlotte in 1984. Above all, Jim loved family. He worked alongside his wife, Betty, for nearly 40 years, and was smitten when all four of his daughters were together. He loved being a grandfather, introducing them to instruments and whatever project he had in the works. Jim is survived by his wife Betty, daughters Terri (Manos), Toni (Grimes), Tami, and Lori; his grandchildren Catie, Torri, Lauren, Allison, Jonathan, and Odin; siblings Bette, Larry, Susan, Julie, Kelly, and Jeanne; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Dorothy, brothers Bill & Joe, and sister Teddie. A celebration will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, September 24, 2022 at Legacy Chapels 4610 South Jackson Road in Edinburg. Funeral Services are under the direction of Legacy Chapels.