Mr. Melvin Harris, 95, of Fresno, CA, went to be with the Lord on November 30th, 2025. He was born in Selma, CA on November 11, 1930.  He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Bessie (Smith) Harris, children Michael Harris (Connie), Dennis Harris and daughter Karen Hartwig (Marty), his seven grandchildren, Joshua, Andrew, Allison, Kristina, Emily, Megan and Matthew, and his 11 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Lena Harris, brother Roy Harris, sister-in-law Frances Harris, and daughter-in-law Kathryn Harris.

Melvin attended Monroe Elementary School and Caruthers High School, where he received the Citizenship Award.  After graduating from high school in 1948, he started work as a teller at the First National Bank of Caruthers.  His banking career spanned over 50 years in which he held various positions including Loan Officer and Bank Manager, and during this time he also worked in real estate and insurance. In addition, he served in the US Army during the Korean War, and was stationed at Ford Ord in Monterey County.

Melvin was a member of the Monmouth Presbyterian Church until 1956. After he and Bessie were married, he became a member of the Easton Presbyterian Church where she was a member.  Melvin was a faithful and dedicated member of the church, serving as a youth sponsor, assistant treasurer/financial secretary, and treasurer.  He was also active in his community, serving as president of Fresno-Madera Christian Endeavor, president of the Easton Lions Club, president and secretary/treasurer of the Caruthers Chamber of Commerce, president and secretary of Gideons-Selma Camp, and the finance officer of the Easton American Legion (Post 55).  He was also an assistant Scout Master, little league team coach in Easton and an active member of the Sons of Norway.  To say he needed a pocket calendar is an understatement (and he always carried his!).  After retiring from banking in July of 2000, he continued working in real estate part time, never being one to sit idle.

Alongside his impressive career and extensive community efforts, Melvin was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, who always made time for his family, especially enjoying camping trips with his children and grandchildren.  If you came over to his house, you were sure to be offered a cup of coffee, a warm smile, and a sweet sense of humor.  And if you were one of his grandkids, he made sure to have ice cream from the Frosty Shop on hand.  Melvin will always be remembered as an honest, trustworthy, and generous man who faithfully loved and served God, his family, and his community.  He will forever be missed and cherished in our hearts.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 , at Easton Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Melvin to Easton Presbyterian Church.