Abell Joins Lions Club's Highest Ranks

Wednesday, September 10, 2025 – On Tuesday, September 9, the Sallisaw Lions Club recognized one of its own, longtime member Marley Abell, with the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship (MJF) Award. The Lions Clubs International Foundation named the fellowship after its founder, Melvin Jones, and honors individuals who exemplify the organization’s motto: “We Serve.”

Abell has been a member of the Sallisaw Lions Club since 2002 and currently serves as chairman of Lions Club Rodeo, Inc., a role that requires year-round leadership and dedication. Over the past 23 years, he has given countless hours to community service projects, programs, and events benefiting both the club and the city of Sallisaw.

“Marley has truly made his mark on this community,” club leaders said during the awards presentation. “He gives his time and talents generously, not only to the Lions Club but also to the people of Sallisaw. He represents everything the Melvin Jones Fellowship stands for.”

The Sallisaw Lions Club formally applied for the award through Lions International. In the past 38 years, only nine members have received this honor in Sallisaw. Abell now becomes the 10th recipient.

The Melvin Jones Fellowship has been awarded sparingly in Sallisaw, with past honorees representing some of the city’s most dedicated leaders. The first to be recognized was CPA Bob Hammons in 1987, who dedicated 50 years to the Lions and held every office at both the local and state levels. Two years later, Stanley Tubbs, owner of Sallisaw Hardware, received the honor for his leadership of the $100,000 library fundraising effort.

In 1992, longtime treasurer and rodeo secretary Bob Park was chosen, followed by Gus Perry in 1994, who became the first chairman of Rodeo Inc. and gave his time to projects such as foster kids’ Christmas Rodeo and Main Street improvements.

In 1999, Dr. James Trudeau, the club’s first president, was recognized for establishing the Lions eyeglass program in Sallisaw, a mission now carried on by his daughter, Amanda Trudeau-Hatcher. Restaurant owner Rick Jobe earned the award in 2007 for his work as rodeo treasurer and for operating the concession stand with his wife, Kathy, while also serving as club treasurer and assisting in countless Lions projects.

The honor went to Sonic Drive-In owner Chuck Sainer in 2011 for his role in organizing the annual Easter Egg Hunt and for being known as a “one-man welcome wagon” for new businesses in town. In 2016, pharmacist Clif Meece received the fellowship for his years of leadership over the rodeo concession and for quietly helping families in need with vital medicines. Two years later, in 2018, Okmulgee Lions Club member R.C. Morrow was honored for his contributions.

Now, with his years of service and leadership, Abell joins this distinguished group of men whose contributions continue to shape both the Lions Club and the entire Sallisaw community.

Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer

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