Melvin McLoughlin

Kerrville Melvin McLoughlin, 80, of Kerrville, TX passed from this life on Thursday, February 14, 2008 at a local care center. Our very special brother was born on April 29, 1927 he was the son of George Washington and Myrtle Cragg McLoughlin.When Melvin was three years old, the family moved to Kerrville. With the exception of three years in Lexington, KY, he spent his life loving his family, friends, neighbors, and the Texas Hill Country. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Melvin could not walk until age five. With much effort, he eventually walked to school at Tivy Elementary, and to Sunday school at First Baptist Church. In 1937 there were no special education classes, but his teacher, Mrs. Luna, made him her special student. His mind was good, but his speech was limited.Melvin was one of the first clients of the Special Opportunity Center when it was located in an old home on Jefferson Street. The Center provides support and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.He loved the outdoors and did yard work for Mrs. Burton along with being proud of keeping the gardens at The Yellow Ribbon Restaurant. Melvin was a kind and loving man who generated love within those who surrounded him.He is survived by his twin brother, Alvin McLoughlin and wife Bettye of Abilene, TX a sister, Ada Dell Ford and husband Russell of Spring Branch, TX many nieces and nephews, and a host of many loving friends, neighbors, and church family. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and five sisters.The family will gather at 1:30 PM, Friday, February 15, 2008 at Kerrville Funeral Home for visitation, proceeding on to Glen Rest Cemetery at 2:30 PM for a Graveside Service officiated by Rev. Russell Page, Associate Pastor of First Baptist Church,Our special thanks to Mark and Paula Paddock and staff at the Special Opportunity Center, to the staff and nurses at River Hills Rehab and Vista Care Hospice. In lieu of floral arrangements, memorials may be sent to the Special Opportunity Center, 200 Francisco Lemos, Kerrville, TX 78028.Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Kerrville Funeral Home.

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