Melvin Ray Launius

Melvin Ray Launius, age 89, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024. Melvin, lovingly known as “Mel,” was born on March 4, 1935, in Knights Prairie Township, Hamilton County, Illinois, to Jeff and Delcie Launius. He was the seventh of eight children. 

Mel attended McLeansboro High School and later graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in Political Science, where he also served as an ROTC cadet. Following college, Mel served his country as a pilot in the United States Air Force for six years and continued his service with the National Guard. Reflecting on his military days, Mel often expressed amazement at being entrusted with a multimillion dollar plane, marveling at the opportunities life provided a young man from rural Illinois. 

After his time in the Air Force, Mel established a successful insurance company with his brothers, Don and Doyle in Greenville, South Carolina. He pursued his entrepreneurial spirit through real estate, marketing, and business endeavors and, true to his love for sports, became the proud owner of the Kansas City Explorers, a pro-tennis team. Despite his diverse career ventures, Mel remained a farmer at heart, always staying connected to the land and raising cattle. 

Mel joined the RLDS Church at age 30, where he later served as an elder. His faith was central to his life and a source of comfort and strength. In 1983, he moved to Independence, Missouri, with his wife, Ardie, and their children Laurie, Melvin Jr., Jeff, and John. After Ardie’s passing, Mel continued to find joy in family and later married Sharon Miller. 

Known for his gregarious personality, Mel never met a stranger. He enjoyed sharing a hearty laugh, telling stories, and offering his signature thumbs-up to show approval. He was a positive spirit, quick to offer a funny quip or lend a helping hand. His family gatherings were filled with laughter, lively conversation, and delicious food, as Mel loved sharing meals and new culinary experiences with his loved ones. He cherished his family above all, greeting each new little one with open arms, saying, “they are what life is all about.” 

Mel is survived by his wife, Sharon Miller; sister, Virginia Durham; daughter Laurie Launius Hawley and son-in-law David Hawley; son Melvin Launius Jr.; son Jeff Launius; son John Launius and daughter-inlaw Susie; eight grandchildren—Jennifer Allen, Matt Hawley, Jessica Todd, Amy Martin, Joshua Launius, Jared Launius, Sariah Launius, and James Launius; and fifteen great-grandchildren, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Services will be held on Sunday, November 10, at 11:00 AM at Speaks Suburban Funeral Home in Independence, Missouri. In honor of Mel’s vibrant life, all who knew and loved him are welcome to join in remembrance and celebration. 

In lieu of flowers please send a donation to: Luminos Hospice, 700 NE RD Mize Road, Suite 200, Blue Springs, MO 64014