Melvin Eugene Stringham Jr.

Melvin Eugene Stringham Jr., lovingly known as "Bud," passed away on February 17, 2025. Bud was born on March 20, 1937, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Melvin Eugene Stringham Sr. and Sylvia Vera Stoddard. He was the second of three sons and grew up in a loving home. Bud graduated from high school in Sheridan, Montana.

Bud faithfully served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Northern California. Following his mission, he married the love of his life, Joyce Virginia Stringham, in the Idaho Falls Temple, where they were sealed for time and all eternity. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised four children: Bryant, Susan, Kelli, and Beverly.

Bud worked as a barber before later becoming a Federal Meat Inspector. He was a dedicated and hardworking man who took great pride in his profession. After raising their family, Bud and Joyce served two full-time missions for their church, one in Wyoming at Martin’s Cove and the Willie Handcart Rescue Site. They also dedicated six years to a service mission at the North Idaho Correctional Institute, where they worked in the addiction recovery program, providing support and hope to those in need.

Bud found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved to index family history records, camp, garden, fish, and hunt. A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Bud had unwavering faith and a strong testimony of the gospel. He served diligently in many callings, including as a bishop, always striving to serve others with kindness and devotion.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents, his brother James “Jim” Stringham, and his beloved wife, Joyce. He is survived by his children: Bryant (Teresa) Stringham, Susan Stringham, Kelli (Jared) Merrick, and Beverly (Mike) Knudsen. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his 22 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Lonnie Stringham.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 21, at 11:00 AM at the Walla Walla LDS Stake Center. Bud will be dearly missed but will live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew and loved him.