I Am Wilshire – Steven Melton.
Hometown: Dallas
Education: Hillcrest High School, 1970; Bachelor’s, University of Texas at Arlington, 1974; Master’s, Amberton University, 1999
Profession: I was in sales for Nabisco 26 years, taught middle school 11 years, worked at Presbyterian Village North six years, and I’m now retired.
Present city: Dallas
Tell us about your family.
I have the most wonderful wife, Jane, who grew up at Wilshire. I have known her since second grade. She has been a Montessori teacher for Lakewood Montessori for over 20 years. My son is a high school principal. Last year his school ranked number one in Louisiana. I have two stepsons and five absolutely fantastic grandkids from age 12 to 25.
What are your favorite hobbies?
Listening to music, collecting records, writing, family history, keeping up with classmates.
Where is your favorite place to travel?
To visit grandkids in Louisiana. To stay in a mountain cabin at Mt. Nebo State Park in Arkansas.
What brought you to Wilshire and when?
I grew up near Wilshire, going to Gaston Avenue Baptist, along with some other future Wilshire folks. Gaston was a wonderful, vibrant church during the 50s and 60s. When I was looking for a church in 2001, it seemed natural to choose Wilshire. I had heard only good things about Bruce McIver and George Mason. Also, I’ve had about eight relatives that were or are members of Wilshire. Pat and Fred Cullum are my beloved cousins.
Where are you engaged at Wilshire?
BEST Sunday School Class, Belong Team, New Member Committee, Hospitality and Homebound Ministry Teams, Friday Friends.
What surprised you most about Wilshire?
Nothing surprising. Besides doing God’s work, I’m pleased that we are socially aware under George’s leadership. Also, I love the “Every body” concept.
What do you think God is up to in your life right now?
I know he has blessed me immensely. He is telling me to do the right thing (my mother’s voice in my head tells me also).
Tell us about your faith journey.
I have been active and non-active in church as an adult. It’s easy to be active at Wilshire, as we have the most incredible people.
What’s something interesting most people wouldn’t know about you?
My first car was a baby blue ’57 Chevy convertible. Yep, I wish I still had it. I also had a sparkling blue Ludwig drum kit that I wish I still had.
- If you’d like to be featured in “I Am Wilshire,” email Carolyn Murray at cmurray@wilshirebc.org.