Melvin Lee Lucas, Jr., 59, died Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at his home in Derby, Kansas.

He was born on March 25, 1966 in Wichita, Kansas. Melvin was raised in Wichita and graduated from Goddard High School. He later moved to Derby where he had lived for several years.

In 1980 Melvin joined his mother and step-father at J & A Rentals in Derby and would become the Vice President of Operations for the next 38 years.

Melvin was an avid sports fan and a longtime supporter of the Derby Panthers. He loved his Corvette and riding motorcycles along with doing woodworking and watching Nascar. Melvin never met a stranger, he was always happy about life and enjoyed cooking out. He will be remembered especially for being a jokester.

Survivors include his three children Deretha Meyer and husband Justin of Pryor, Oklahoma, Lynnie Lucas and wife Kate of Wichita, Lillyann Dies and husband Cameron of Rose Hill, Ks.; his mother Ann Margaret Waldschmidt Prothro of Wichita; siblings Kathy Talley, Barry Talley, Tisha Farbro all of Wichita; four grandchildren Makinzie Ruddick, Viola Dies, Octavia Dies, Braxton Dies; one great grandson Stetson Dugger; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Melvin is preceded in death by his father Melvin Lee Lucas, Sr.; brother Lynnie Talley; and step-father John Prothro.

The casket will be open for family and friends on Tuesday, June 24 at Affordable Cremations Plus between 5:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, June 25 at Affordable Cremations Plus in Wichita.