Melvin Elroy Carney, age 79, of Kingston passed away peacefully Thursday, May 1, 2025 at his home.  He was born February 28, 1946 in Lone Oak, Kentucky.  He was a member of Young’s Chapel Cumberland Presbyterian Church and also a member of American Legion Post 50 of Rockwood.

 

He served his country proudly in the United States Air Force from 1963 – 1975, receiving several medals of honor. SGT Carney served in Ankrah Turkey, South Dakota, Hannah City. He then re-enlisted and served in Havre, Montana and the Philippines, stationed at Clark Air Force Base, also at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.

 

He loved riding Harley Davidson motorcycles and working on cars.  He also enjoyed stock car races and fishing.  His greatest passion was spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren. 

 

Melvin worked as a Unit Operator from 1976-2000 at TVA Steam Plant here in Kingston.  After retiring from TVA, he worked for Auto Zone in Harriman. 

 

Preceded in death by his son, Neil Wayne Carney; father, Otey Elroy Carney; mother, Edna Earl Smith Dickerson; stepdad, Bernard Dickerson; father-in-law, Harold Davenport; mother-in-law, LaVelle Thaler.

 

SURVIVORS

 

Loving Wife of 59 years        Sharon Carney of Kingston

 

Daughter                                Lesa Golliher & husband, Randy of Rockwood

 

Son                                          Tony Carney & wife, Katie of Kingston

 

Grandchildren                       Kinya Watts & husband, Matt

                                                Christopher Powers & wife, Alex

                                                Ashlea Carney, Megan Carney, Tyler Carney

                                                Emily Otto & husband, Brandon

                                                Thomas Lindsey, and Hunter W. Golliher

 

Great-grandchildren             Titus Lorenz, Silas Lorenz, Hadley Powers, Bianca Carney, and Isadora Otto

 

Future Grandson-in-law      Forrest Spitzer

 

Several extended family members and a host of friends.

 

To honor his wishes, he was cremated and a private graveside service will be held by the family.  Online register book can be signed at www.FrakerFuneralHome.net.  Fraker Funeral Home of Kingston in charge of arrangements.