Wallingford/Jarlov Family Trees

Rev. Melvin Surface
July 23, 1946 - October 7, 2018
Melvin Eugene Surface, 72, of Ozark, passed away Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. He was born in
Houston, Texas, July 23, 1946, the son of Milford and Marguerite (Schmiech) Surface.
Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Melody Joy; a brother, Robert
Surface; and two sisters: Ana Lee Long and Ethel Marie Corbett.
Melvin married the love of his life, Linda, on Aug. 26, 1967. Together, they served in
ministry with the Assemblies of God for over 50 years.
Melvin started his ministry as an evangelist. After graduating from the University of
Houston with a degree in journalism, he served as a missionary to the Alabama-Coushatta
Tribe of Louisiana while working as city editor for the Crowley Post Herald. He then
accepted an invitation to the Assemblies of God National Office in Springfield, Missouri, to
continue his writing ministry in the Office of Information. Melvin served as pastor of
Abundant Life Assembly of God in Grapevine, Texas, from 1981-84, and Floral Heights
Assembly of God in Wichita Falls, Texas, from 1984-93. He was elected to the position of
Christian education and men’s director for the North Texas District Council of the
Assemblies of God, serving from 1993-2009. Melvin served as associate pastor at
Crowley Assembly of God in Crowley, Texas, from 2010-18, before retiring and moving to
Ozark earlier this year.
A gifted writer, Melvin was the author of two books and numerous published articles.
A passionate follower of Jesus, Melvin was known for his joyful spirit, wit, and sense of
humor.
Melvin is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda; one son and his spouse: Keith and
Melanie Surface of Ozark; four grandchildren: Maegan, Amy, Kimberlee, and Simeon
Surface of Ozark; two brothers: Derrell and his wife, Jan, of Hillsboro, Texas; and
Clarence Surface and his wife, Samona, of Houston, Texas; numerous nieces and
nephews and many friends.Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 12, 2018, in Adams Funeral Home, Ozark, with
graveside services to follow at Selmore Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9-11 a.m. Friday
in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Surface
family.