Melvin L. Johnston

Melvin Lee Johnston, longtime resident of the Fargo, Oklahoma community, was born March 21, 1935, at Vici, Oklahoma, to Ernest Loyd and Essie (Olds) Johnston. He completed his earthly journey on February 6, 2026, at the age of 90 years, 10 months, and 16 days.

Melvin was raised southwest of Vici on the Jeffrey’s Ranch, where his father served as ranch foreman. Growing up alongside four brothers and two sisters, he developed a strong work ethic, a deep appreciation for farming and ranching, and a lasting faith through his membership in the Methodist Church. These values remained a guiding force throughout his life.

He attended Vici Public Schools and graduated with the Class of 1953. Following high school, he attended college in Tulsa, Oklahoma, until 1956. That same year, he proudly enlisted in the Oklahoma Air National Guard. Melvin served his country with honor, including active duty during the Vietnam War, and received numerous commendations for his service. Through dedication and leadership, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before receiving his honorable discharge in August of 1983.

On January 18, 1958, Melvin was united in marriage to the love of his life, Eileen Beth Hutchison. Their union was blessed with two children, Terri Ann and Jerry Lee. Throughout the years, Melvin and Eileen made their home in several Oklahoma communities, including Vici, Weatherford, Oklahoma City, Woodward, and Fargo.

In 1965 and 1966, Melvin returned to college at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. With the steadfast support of Eileen, he established a respected CPA firm in Fargo, Oklahoma, serving his community faithfully for many years until his retirement in 2016.

Melvin was a devoted family man, a successful businessman, and a lifelong farmer and rancher. He found great enjoyment in hunting adventures and horse racing and treasured the time spent with family and friends. His legacy of hard work, integrity, and kindness will be remembered by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd and Essie Johnston; his beloved wife, Eileen; his cherished daughter, Terri Ann; his brothers, Dale E. Johnston, Milo Johnston, Ernest Johnston, and Jimmie Johnston; his sisters, Deloris Aytes Hedges and Deletha Thomas; and other dear loved ones.

Melvin’s memory will be forever cherished by his son, Jerry Johnston and wife Laura of Elk City, Oklahoma; his grandchildren, Jackie Hurst and family of Phoenix, Arizona, Jerrica Johnston and family of Phoenix, Arizona, ShiAnn Johnston and daughter of Elk City, Oklahoma, Zach Nitzel and family of Calumet, Oklahoma, Zane Nitzel and family of Calumet, Oklahoma, and Jessica Nitzel of Calumet, Oklahoma; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, former employees and clients, and a host of friends.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fargo Global Methodist Church
c/o Shaw Funeral Home
PO Box 276
Vici, OK 73859