Melvin Junior Avancini

Melvin Avancini of Stanaford, passed away on September 14, 2015. He was the son of the late Louis and Phoebe Avancini. He was born October 27, 1923 at McKendree Hospital. Melvin was a Navy Veteran who served in World War II on ATR 97. Melvin was a lifelong learner who enjoyed reading and had a vast knowledge of the state of West Virginia. He enjoyed spending time outdoors with his family. He was of the Christian faith. He was a proud, lifetime member of the UMWA and worked in the coal mines for 42 years. Melvin was the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 67 years Mary, son Roy Smith, grandchildren Jennifer and Danny Carter. Those left to cherish his memory include daughters, Helen Carter, Debbie March, Linda Lilly; sons, Larry Avancini and wife Morag; grandchildren, Roy Smith, Kevin Smith, Charles March, Eva Scarbro, Larry Avancini, Lindsay Thomas, Courtney Ansley and Josh Lilly; along with 17 great grandchildren. Services will be held Saturday, September 19, 2015 11:00am at Blue Ridge Funeral Home with Pastor Gene Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. Friends may gather with the family Friday, September 18, 2015 from 6-8pm at the funeral home. Grandsons will be serving as pallbearers. “God saw you were getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so He put His arms around you and whispered “Come to Me.” With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away, and although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.”