Melvin Ira Thornhill, a distinguished military veteran, and a man of many passions, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2023 at the age of 80 surrounded by his family. Leaving behind a love for poker, dominoes, and cooking that brought joy to those who knew him.
Born on February 15, 1943 in Columbia, Mississippi, Melvin grew up in Morgantown, Mississippi enjoying life fishing and spending time with his brothers and cousins. Later, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps where he served 10 years with three tours in Vietnam. After his dedicated service in the Marines, he spent over 40 years in the oilfield - drilling and completing oil wells. Making many lifelong friendships.
Melvin found solace and joy in the company of loved ones, spending time with his grandkids, telling funny jokes and keeping the school kids in line. He cherished the time spent with all of his family, his children and the wide variety of their friends. He loved them dearly.
Melvin was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Alexander; brother, Elzey Ray Thornhill; and sister, Caroline Crump. He is survived by his brother, Lewis Webster Alexander, Jr., special cousin, Butch Thornhill; sons, Lance Thornhill (Cheryl), and Chad Thornhill (Brandy), both of Sumrall, MS; daughters, Melissa Thornhill of Jacksonville, Florida, and Brittany Haddox (Drew) of Columbia; grandchildren, Carson Thornhill, Carter Lee, Cooper Thornhill, Jordan Thornhill, Cayden Thornhill, Brinlee Haddox, and Addie Ford; honorary daughter, Merida Fortenberry; honorary granddaughter, Allie Watts; and a host of extended family and friends.
Family will receive friends for visitation at Colonial Funeral Home in Columbia on Monday, September 11, 2023 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am in honor of Melvin on September 12, 2023, at Mt. Sinai Church of God Cemetery. Reverend Johnathan McLemore will officiate and military honors will be rendered paying tribute to Melvin’s dedicated service to our nation.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly prefers memorial contributions be made to Melvin’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.
Melvin will always be remembered for the joy and laughter he brought to his family and friends.
