Melvin Jarel Amox, 84, of Benton, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026. Born July 11, 1941, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to MJ Amox and Vola Vera Amox, he lived a life defined by service — to his country, his church, his community, and most especially his family.

Jarel retired as a Captain in the United States Army after 21 years of service in units across Arkansas and Texas. His steady leadership and disciplined character marked his military career. Following retirement from the Army, he entered the field of sales, a profession perfectly suited to a man who never met a stranger. Conversations came easily to Jarel — and they were rarely short.

For 39 years, he was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Benton, Arkansas, where he served not from the front of the room but from the foundation — as a steadfast presence in the bass section of the choir. His voice anchored hymns just as his life anchored those around him.

Scouting was another lifelong passion. For over 40 years, Jarel lived the values of the Boy Scouts of America, first as a youth and later as a devoted leader alongside his son, Mark. He served in numerous roles throughout his Scouting journey, always prepared for the next campout, the next lesson, or the next adventure.

He was also a dedicated member of Congo Lodge in Benton, Arkansas, where he found fraternity, service, and brotherhood.

Above all, he was a protector and provider for his family. He loved fiercely and was ever present. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Mary Jo, whom after a whirlwind six-week courtship he married on January 27, 1972, in El Dorado, Arkansas. In recent years, as Mary Jo battled Alzheimer's disease, Jarel faithfully and tenderly served as her primary caregiver — a quiet, daily expression of the vows he made more than five decades ago.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughters, Wendy and Leigh Ann; his granddaughter, Allie Burns; and his sister, Glenda Amox Ferrara.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Jo Joiner Amox; their children, Mark Amox (Carrie) of Gainesville, Florida, and Melanie Page (Jamie) of Benton, Arkansas; and his son, Scott Amox (Amanda) of Mansfield, Texas.

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Madeleine, Luke, Anne Marie, Bella, Laney, Ashton, Carley, Micah (Kendal), and Jeremy.

He is further survived by his brother, Earl Amox (Connie) of Plano, Texas.

Jarel's legacy is one of steadfast devotion — to faith, family, and service. He built memories in his workshop, mentored Scouts into manhood, lifted hymns into sanctuary rafters, and showed up — consistently, reliably, fiercely — for the people he loved.

And if you listen closely in the days ahead, you may still hear one of his stories begin to unfold — long, winding, and somewhere along the way, featuring a fish just a little bigger than expected.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026 at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at First United Methodist Church in Benton, Arkansas. Burial service will follow at Pinecrest Cemetery in Alexander, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to: Arkansas Alzheimer's Association.