Melvin Wade Carrell, a master craftsman, a music promoter, a Vietnam veteran, and a man who never met a joke he didn’t like—passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, in Webster, Texas. He was 80 years old.
Born on January 9, 1945, in Earth, Texas, to Rex and June Carrell, Melvin answered the call of duty as a young man, serving his country with honor in the United States Navy (USNR-R) during the Vietnam War.
For the last 57 years, Melvin called Alvin, Texas, his home. A lifelong carpenter and member of the Houston Carpenters Local 213, he was a man who knew the value of building a life with his own two hands. He owned and operated his own cabinet shops, leaving behind a legacy of quality craftsmanship.
Melvin’s life was defined by his boundless energy and creativity. In his younger years, he was an avid Flat Track motorcycle racer, a passion that led him to own and operate a track in Alvin. His love for entertainment and community also led him to found “The Great Southern Opry” in Manvel, Texas, in the mid-1980s. Hosting live shows at the Manvel Junior High Auditorium, this venture evolved into the beloved Alvin Opry, which continues to entertain audiences today.
But perhaps what people will remember most was his mischievous spirit. Melvin was a legendary joker who loved to “cut up.” If you went to shake his hand, you might find yourself holding his leg in a Three Stooges-style gag or falling victim to the classic “pull my finger” joke. He had a nickname for everyone—branding his son’s friends with titles like “The Lady Killer” or “The Hair God.” His Favorite nick name was for himself, “P.O.W. aka Poor Ole Wade” He would go out of his way to make someone laugh, believing that a smile was one of the best gifts you could give.
In the later years of his life, Melvin enjoyed painting and dedicated himself fully to his faith. He spent his time spreading the word of Jesus, reaching people all over the world through his Facebook ministry group, “Echos of Mercy.” Whether through a joke or a prayer, Melvin spent his life lifting the spirits of those around him.
Melvin is survived by his wife, Francis Louise Carrell of Alvin; his children: Larry Wade Carrell and his wife Merry Dawn of Houston, Nissa Choate and her husband James of Alvin, Rex Kale Carrell and his wife Michelle of Alvin, and Cody Waylon Carrell of Alvin. He is also survived by his sister, Madeline Williamson of Lubbock. His legacy continues through his eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He joins his parents, Rex and June, in eternal rest.
The family will hold a private graveside service with Navy Honors at 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the Alvin Confederate Cemetery.
Friends and the community are warmly invited to join the family for a Celebration of Lifeservice following the interment to share stories and remember Melvin at11:00 AM at the Alvin Missionary Baptist Church, 2102 W Lang St, Alvin, Texas with Rev. Justin Gatlin officiating.
