Melvin Niece

Born January 24, 1938, to Elsie and Ira Niece. Raised on a ranch in Seneca, New Mexico near the historic Santa Fe Trail. He worked hard, played hard and chased the sunsets on horseback. On Valentines Day in 1959 he married his sweetheart, Rita Ann Kear. They welcomed their three daughters into their home and eventually decided to leave the ranch and move to town. Melvin moved his family to Clovis, New Mexico in 1972. He and Rita were business owners for more than 50 years. Melvin took care of his family, friends and neighbors. He and Rita touched countless lives with their kindness and generosity.

On May 30, 2023, he finally received the call he had been waiting on. Melvin missed his sweetheart for the past four years and this journey was becoming a challenge. He was ready to make the final move to be united with Rita, his family and friends. His new location is better than you can imagine, and although he will be missed terribly every day, we take joy that we will see him again soon.

Melvin leaves his three daughters, Melva Duffield, Kim and Jack Bell and Robin and Allan Myers. Eight grandchildren, whom he adored, Holly Duffield, Landon and Lacie Duffield, Keeson and Kaci Bell, Kelby and Seth Simmons, Allison Myers, John and Oliva Myers, Hannah Myers and Josh Myers. He was also blessed with 8 great-grandchildren, Paxton, Brantley, Paisley and Elsie Duffield; Maddox and Hattie Bell and Cecelia and Dax Simmons. Melvin leaves 2 little sisters that he loved dearly, Betty and Mike Lamb and Patsy and Duane Besherse. Nieces and Nephews are plenty and Uncle Melvin loved them all.

Melvin was preceded in death by his Valentine, Rita Ann; his parents, big brother, Lloyd Niece, and a sister, Lois Russell. His son in law, Steve Duffield, was head of heaven’s welcome team.

Those of us left behind will celebrate his wonderful life on June 9, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Bethel Assembly of God in Clovis, NM. We will remember the lessons he taught us, the laughter he shared with us and above all the love that he showered us with every day. Our cowboy was one of a kind.