Melvin Augustus Kinnison

Melvin Augustus Kinnison, a dedicated community leader, businessman, and servant of others, died on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at sunrise, surrounded by the loving care of his family and the Century Tree Assisted Living team in Littlefield, Texas; leaving behind a legacy of generosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people of Seminole and Gaines County.

Born on February 19, 1938, in Lamesa, Texas to Raymond Melton Kinnison and Ruby Lucille Jackson Kinnison, Melvin graduated from Seagraves High School in 1956. He attended Paris Junior College on a basketball scholarship before beginning a career marked by hard work and service. With a company career that spanned 40 years in Seagraves, Slaton, Lubbock, and Springlake-Earth, Melvin was the regional manager of Southwestern Public Service Company in Seminole where he earned the respect of colleagues and community members alike through his professionalism and willingness to help others.

Melvin was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army which he served from 1961-1963 at the invitation of Uncle Sam, being stationed in Williamsburg, Virginia, ferrying large cranes and other heavy equipment to Guantanamo Bay during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Melvin coached boys and girls Little Dribblers teams, served as an official for junior varsity and varsity basketball games for 25 years and football games for 15 years, served in the Slaton and Earth Lions Clubs, and was selected as Man of the Year in Earth in 1980.

Melvin was widely recognized for his contributions to the Seminole community. In recognition of his selfless dedication and civic involvement, he was named Seminole’s “Citizen of the Year” by the Seminole Area Chamber of Commerce. Those who nominated him described him as a rare individual who never waited to be asked for help. Instead, he was often the first to volunteer, asking, “Can I help? What do you want me to do?”

His impact was felt throughout the community. He played a key role in securing and renovating the historic jail building that became the Chamber of Commerce office. He generously contributed his time, equipment, and personnel to numerous community projects, including annual Chamber banquets and civic improvement efforts.