Melvin Coward George

Melvin Coward George, 88, of Columbia, passed away on November 1, 2011. Born September 4, 1923, he was a son of the late Milledge and Pearl Coward George. Growing up during the Great Depression, Mel learned the value of family, friends, and hard work. He was devoted to his parents and his brothers and sisters. Mel had many lifelong friends and was considered a true gentleman by all who knew him.

Growing up in the Melrose Heights area of Columbia, he attended Hand Middle School and graduated from Dreher High School where he excelled in baseball. He later played semi-pro baseball, but his dream of a career in the sport was interrupted by the reality of WWII and then meeting the girl who became the love of his life.

In 1942 Mel joined the US Navy and began training as an aircraft pilot. Memories of his flight experiences, good and bad, and the men with whom he worked, became stories that he would later tell his children. Mel was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1945 and was forever proud of being a part of the US Navy.

Shortly after returning to Columbia, Mel met Dorothy Walker and a new chapter of his life began. They were married on July 5, 1946, and celebrated their 65th anniversary in 2011. Mel and Dot have truly lived their wedding vows, giving the family a constant example of what real love means.

In the fall of 1946, Mel went to work for Swift and Co., Agri-Chem. Division, which later became ConAgra. He retired in 1985. During his years after retirement, Mel enjoyed playing golf, poker with his lifelong buddies, and working in his beautiful yard. His favorite activities, however, were always those that included being with his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren. Family was Mel’s passion. He was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

Mel is survived by his wife, Dot of Columbia; daughters, Becky (Roger) Everett of Newberry, Annette (Robert) Wertz of Camden, and Ellen (Charlie Smith) George of Lexington; grandchildren, Scott (Nancye) Bailey, Chris (Stephanie) Bailey, Anne Bailey (Jacob) Lee of Raleigh, Ryan Wertz of Columbia, Drew (Ann) Wertz of Columbia; and great-grandchildren, Kennedy Bailey, Walker Bailey, Ries Bailey, Grace Wertz, Andy Wertz, and Teo Lee. Also, Mel is survived by his much loved brothers, Eddie George of Charlotte and Leon (Betty) George of Blythewood; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ellis George, Carl George; and sisters, Gwen Terry, Josephine Kelly, and Martha Smallwood.

Mel’s family wants to thank the staff of Sterling House, Parklane, for their loving care during Mel and Dot’s time there. We are especially thankful, too, for Dr. Dale Hamrick, physician and friend. To the staff at UPAC Blythewood, who lovingly cared for Mel during his last year, “Thank You”. Finally, we thank the staff of United Hospice for their care & ministry. May God bless each of you.

A graveside service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery on Thursday, November 3, 2011 at 3 o’clock. Pastor Kathy Chartier will officiate. Visitation will be from 6:30 until 7:30 pm, Wednesday, November 2, 2011 in the chapel at UniHealth PAC, Blythewood. Memorials may be made to Harvest Hope Food Bank, P.O. Box 451, Columbia, SC 29202, or to a charity of one’s choice.