Palmer Melton, Celebrating 50 Years

Born in Houston, Palmer Melton his brother Talley and twin sisters, Mill and Marge, were raised by their father after they lost their mother at a young age. Their father (Henry Palmer Melton, Sr.), a Houston sports legend, set the bar high for his children’s education.

From the time he was just a kid, Palmer enjoyed learning about business: how to please customers, and do the work right. His first job was a paper route in his Riverside Terrace neighborhood. He worked at a filling station near Almeda Road and later bought and owned it during college. He also raised bees and sold honey to bakeries, raised cattle near the Gulf Freeway, and worked on an East Texas ranch. Palmer worked many early mornings and late nights. He attributes his success, in part, to his work ethic and his determination to always do the best job possible.

Palmer never planned to become a CPA, but after a trying state with engineering studies at Rice University, he changed his major to accounting. He obtained his degree in accounting from University of Houston and then joined a local accounting firm that merged into Haskins & Sells (now Deloitte & Touche). A few years later, Palmer and Talley launched Melton & Melton and set their goal of becoming a key player in Houston’s business environment. Melton & Melton’s first years were challenging, but momentum came on more rapidly than they could have imagined.

Palmer says that the firm grew, in large measure, as a result of relationships with bankers, attorneys, insurance brokers, former classmates, family friends, and newcomers to the city. He adds that their exceptional group of employees who, over the past 50 years, have contributed their talent and hard work have been vital to the firm’s success. Finally, he recognizes the loyalty of clients who have, themselves, become Houston business leaders.

Palmer, like his dad, is a sportsman who enjoys fishing and hunting and rarely misses a Houston Texans game. He loves spending time with his wife, Dolores; children, Dottie, Caroline and Chris; and eight amazing grandchildren. They are all proud of Palmer’s achievements and his dedication to his family and friends. 

When asked about his most memorable moment in 50 years of business a humbled Palmer had a distinguished look of happiness on his face. With his wise eyes squinting slightly his response was simple, “the entire 50 years have been the most memorable. I am so grateful to everyone who has contributed and joined in this journey.  I could never say thank you enough to truly express my gratitude for everyone and their contributions.”