James Melbourne Appell

James Melbourne Appell passed away Wednesday, July 28, 2021. Graveside services will be held at 9:00 am, Saturday, August 7, 2021, at Oakwood Cemetery. Melbourne was born February 11, 1926, in Waco, Texas, to Charles Appell and Regina (Flanigan) Appell. Melbourne graduated from Waco High School, served in the United States Marine Corp, and then graduated from Baylor University. It was during his time at Baylor, he met his beautiful wife, Barbara. Melbourne was in the savings and loan business, and he was President of Pioneer Savings Association. He was active in many civic organizations such as: the board of Regis/St. Elizabeth, United Way, Meals on Wheels, and many others. He served a term as President of Ridgewood Country Club. There he loved playing golf and spending time with friends and family. He was a lifelong Catholic and a member of St. Louis Catholic Church. He was also a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. He was preceded in death by his precious wife, Barbara Appell: son, Thomas Appell; brother, Sam Appell; and, sister, Marie McCracken. He is survived by his daughter, Ruth Bolt; daughter-in-law, Deborah Appell; granddaughter, Julie Simmon and husband Trey Simmon; great-grandchildren, Peyton and Madeline Simmon; sister-in-law, Julie LeBlanc; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Ridgecrest Retirement and Health Care facility, along with, all the nurses, chaplain, and staff of Compassus for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, St. Louis Catholic Church of Waco, Autism Speaks, or the charity of your choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.