Melvin Robert "Bulldog" Barton

Funeral services for Melvin Robert “Bulldog” Barton, 78, of Alto will be held Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Trey Ainsworth officiating. Interment will follow at Conner Cemetery in Ratcliff.

Mr. Barton was born September 12, 1947 in Ratcliff, Texas to the late Alice Bell (McKinney) and William Daniel Barton, and passed away Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Robert lived a life centered around family, faith, and hard work. He began working at the Lufkin Papermill in 1968 and retired in 2001. During his employment he was a Shipping and Logistics Coordinator, retired as a Finishing and Shipping Supervisor, and had served as Union Organizer and Union President, earning the respect and friendship of his coworkers along the way. Robert had worked closely with the FFA, and he loved the outdoors - whether hunting, roaming his property, or simply enjoying time outside - but his greatest joy came from being with his family. His love for them was evident in everything he did, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Rosemary (Wilson) Barton of Alto; sons, Thomas Edward Barton, William Daniel Barton and wife Kimberly, and John Barton and wife Emily; grandchildren, Cayden Barton, Bryleigh Barton, Thomas “T-Bob” Barton, Rose Marie Barton, and Shelby Hill; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Charlie Newland; brothers, Raymond Smitherman and Johnnie Smitherman; and sister, Nell Brown.

Pallbearers will be Thomas Barton, Daniel Barton, John Barton, Cayden Barton, Thomas “T-Bob” Barton, and Spencer Smith.

Honorary pallbearer will be Ronnie Perez.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Saturday evening at the funeral home.

“A loving husband and father - the best one you could ask for”.

Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed, at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.