Melvin Lee Senter

Melvin Lee Senter went to his eternal reward on Saturday. February 10, 2024 at his residence in Stephenville, Texas. The family will host a memorial service Saturday, April 20, at 2:00pm, at the Morgan Mill Community Center to celebrate his life.

Melvin was born in Stephenville, Texas on October 21, 1948 to Barney Lee Senter and Dalphine Howerton Senter.    He was raised on the family farm in the Morgan Mill community graduating from Morgan Mill schools and attending Stephenville High School.

Melvin was a Vietnam Veteran and served in the US Army as a door gunner on a Huey Helicopter. He received over 26 air medals for some of his missions. He served with the elite Ghost Riders and through the remainder of his life he continued his pride of being a Ghost Riders by being a member of the Ghost Riders’ Motorcycle Club.   He attended as many of his unit reunions through the years as he could.  He made frequent trips to Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Angel Fire, New Mexico, The Wall in Washington, DC, and many of the moving Wall exhibits in honor of his fallen and fellow brothers in arms.

Melvin was also a member of the “By Gone Days Gunfighters”in Stephenville, Texas.  This special group of disabled veterans, law enforcement veterans, and members of their families performed 1800s reenactments and cowboy gunfights for over 20 years in the surrounding area of Erath County.  The guys always said these performances gave them an opportunity to “squeeze the trigger and smell gunpowder” in a fun, entertaining and legal manner.   Melvin (aka Evil Roy) took great delight in the role as the outlaw coming to town and raising a little cane.  He loved the chance to pull on his cowboy boots and spurs and strap on his six shooters.  He was a crowd favorite with his ornery ways of getting Marshal Ken’s(aka Ken Ritchie) attention and both were a force to be reckoned with when they met.

Melvin was proceeded in death by his parents.  A baby brother, James, and special brother in arms and best friend, Ken Ritchie.

Melvin is survived by his sister, Judy Senter Baker of Stephenville.  A niece, Shally Elston and husband, James, of Stephenville.  Nephew, CJ Stewart of Stephenville; son, James Ables of Dublin 2 great-nephews, 2 great-nieces, and 7 great- great nieces. and special extended family, Robin Ritchie and Ethan Ritchie of Stephenville and many friends from all walks of life.

Melvin’s wishes were to be cremated.   A day of honor and tribute for Melvin will be held at a later date.   Those wishing to express a gift of kindness in Melvin’s memory are encouraged to do so to : Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Angel Fire Memorial

c/o D.B. Herbst

34 Country Club Rd.

Angel Fire, NM 87710

(575) 377-2293

DB.herbst@dvs.nm.gov  or

Wound Warrior Project

https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/media/1649/wwp-website-privacy-policy.pdf

or to their favorite charity of choice.