Melvin Ross Lanham

Melvin Ross Lanham, age 79, of Stanford, Kentucky, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026.  Born Friday, October 4, 1946, in Danville, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Charles & Hallie D. Logue Lanham.  Melvin was the widower of the late Gloria Jean Walters Lanham, who preceded him in death Sunday, May 26, 2024.  Melvin was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, who actively served February 24,1965-August 23, 1968; and a U.S. Navy Veteran, who actively serve March 21, 1969-September 18, 1970.  Melvin retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad, where he worked as a signalman.  He enjoyed going to the casinos, in his spare time.

Melvin leaves behind one daughter, Tammi Smither (Dan) of Stanford; four grandchildren, Sierra Matherly (Connor Dean) of Nicholasville, Kentucky, Berea Neff (David Hawkins) of Stanford, Destiny Lanham of Chicago, Illinois, and Kolton Lanham of Danville; two great-grandchildren, Harlyn Lanham of Chicago, and Atlas Dean of Nicholasville; one brother, Eddie Lanham of Danville; one sister, Jane Hilton of Danville; and several other extended family members and friends who mourn his passing.

In addition to his wife and parents, Melvin was preceded in death by one son, Charles Gilbert Lanham; and one sister, Lana Ward.

A Public Graveside Service, with Full Military Honors, will be held 11AM Monday, March 23, 2026, at Camp Nelson National Cemetery.  The Graveside Service will be livestreamed on Melvin’s memorial page of the funeral home’s website.  Burial will follow the service.

Memorial Contributions suggested to Fox & Friend Funeral Home, c/o Melvin Lanham Memorial Fund, 312 West Main Street, Stanford, KY 40484.

Fox & Friend Funeral Home, Stanford, is entrusted with Melvin’s arrangements.  Guest Book at www.friendfuneralhomes.com.

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