James Melton

James (Jamie) Van Horn Melton was born on April 6th, 1952, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Atlanta on June 28th, 2025.

He grew up with his parents and two brothers in Chatham, Virginia. He received his BA from Vanderbilt University in 1974 and his PhD in History from the University of Chicago in 1982, after conducting his dissertation research in Vienna, Austria, as a Fulbright Scholar. Subsequently, he taught at the University of Arkansas and Florida International University before joining the faculty at Emory University in 1987. He retired from Emory in 2023.

Jamie was an inspiring teacher and consummate scholar, who wrote field-defining books, edited several volumes, and penned numerous articles in early modern European and Atlantic history. He also stood out by chairing three different departments as well as serving in manifold other capacities at Emory and beyond. His work was translated into German, Spanish, and Turkish, and it remains highly regarded internationally by a new generation of scholars.

Most importantly, he was a man of good will, of integrity, courage, and compassion, who sought to do right by those who were in his life or crossed his path. Jamie was a loving husband and father, a devoted son and brother, and a committed friend. He was also a generous colleague, mentor, and teacher, and a respected leader who had the courage to stand up for his values and defend the vulnerable. Though erudite and accomplished, Jamie completely lacked pretentiousness. He loved engaging in conversation and entertaining guests, and he enjoyed classical music, walking and biking, and spending time abroad, especially in Salzburg, Austria, and in Italy. His wit, charm, and adventurous spirit brought smiles and joy to those who knew him, and his faith was his guide throughout. He is deeply missed.

Jamie is survived by his wife, Barbara Lawatsch-Melton, his two children, Sarah (Matt Miller) and Peter, his former wife, Donna Walko Melton Provost, and his two brothers Ed (Julie) and Will (Eliza).