Editor:

For almost 60 years, three generations of the Melton family has had the honor of serving the driving needs of the people of Fairhope. In the early years the whole car was serviced but, as the cars became more complex, we specialized in certain areas.

Over the years, we have gotten to know more people than I can recall, but would like to thank all of you for coming to Melton’s. There are, however, several that come to mind who have made the years rememberable.

One lady who visited our shop was startled when I made it look like her car was electrocuting me. After several screams, she saw I was OK. This customer has been coming back now for more than 12 years.

Then there are the twins. The first time I saw them, they were in car seats, and now they are in the driver’s seat.

Then, there are the snowbirds who made Fairhope their home. I had a lady who retired and moved North but, who does that? When I told her she would be back, two winters in Chicago was enough, and she is still here.

Then, there was this 16-year-old who once wrecked her mother’s car, and when she couldn’t reach her parents, she called me. She was scared and more upset than anybody I have seen, but just a few months later, she had saved enough to buy her first car, and I helped her through this. I don’t think I have seen anyone any happier than she was at that moment. Through the years, more good times like marriage and family came, and she shared those joys with me, too.

However, all was auto related. I got a call to take this lady to the emergency room with a cat scratch. I had a sign about what teenagers that “know it all” should do. So, a father of three boys suddenly appeared, and had the boys read the sign. Then they all got back in the car and left without saying a word. I could only wonder what happened earlier.

Dewey Melton, my great uncle, started Melton’s Garage in 1949. My father, Ed Wilson, took over when Dewey retired in 1972. Then, I took over from my father, and have had it for 22 years. I have enjoyed being here and enjoyed our customers. Some remember my uncle and father, and it has been nice to make the memories with all of you.

For years I was called Melton. It took a while for my wife, Lori, to get used to being called Ms. Melton. Lori has a daughter, Tori, who has given us a granddaughter, Ayla. So, with Ayla in north Alabama, we decided to move Melton’s to Arab, south of Huntsville. There we will enjoy watching Ayla grow up. If you are ever in that part of Alabama, look us up.

Thanks again Fairhope for your business and all the memories.

Eddie and Lori Wilson