Melvin Loy Dickens, 87, of South Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026.  Melvin was born on October 6, 1938, to Jesse Earnest Dickens and Lillie Buchanan Dickens in Pasadena, Texas.  Melvin was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; Mae Duerer, Dorothy Covell, Raymond Dickens, and John "Jay" Dickens. He was also preceded in death by his nephews Bert Duerer and Don Dickens.  He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews; Bob Duerer, Wayne Duerer, Paul Covell, Sue Piwonka, Mark Covell, Donna Hatcher, Diane Dickens, Cindy Dickens, and Debbie Williams.  He is also survived by many great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

Melvin graduated from Pasadena High School, class of 1957, and the University of Houston, class of 1971, earning a BA degree in economics.

In his youth, Melvin was a cowboy, helping his father herd the cattle they had grazing in pastures ranging from Genoa to Texas City.  Melvin's love of horses continued into adulthood.  He won many ribbons with his American Quarter Horses.  He was even known to participate in rodeo events.

Melvin worked as an electrician, a trade he learned from his dad and older brother, Raymond.  For a short time, he was the manager at South Houston Hardware.

Later, Melvin earned his real estate license, and while working in that industry, he eventually became a commercial real estate appraiser.

During the Viet Nam era, Melvin enlisted in the Air National Guard and went to Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, for his basic training.  Fortunately, his unit was never called to active duty.

Melvin was an avid white-tailed deer hunter and had many antler trophies displayed in his den.  He told many stories about his hunts in Junction, Texas.

Melvin was a devout Christian attending church regularly and teaching Sunday School classes.

The family is grateful to all the staff at Reunion Court Clear Lake for the wonderful care and compassion he received during his time with them.  We are also grateful to his hospice nurse, Marla Smith, RN, who lovingly cared for him during his final days, and Chaplain Trudy Huff whose visits brought him much comfort.