Walter Beverly Melvin Jr.

Walter B. Melvin, Jr. (Junior/J.R.) of Lynchburg, Va. passed away peacefully at home on September 19, 2024. He was born on February 8, 1934 in Tip Top, VA to Walter B. Melvin, Sr. and Clara Puckett Melvin who preceded him in death. Also preceding him were his three brothers, Gene, Frank and Jack along with his son, Scott and great grandson Gabe Henderson.

J.R. Is survived by his wife of 39 years, Linda Melvin, two daughters, Kathy Melvin of Glen Allen, VA and Teresa Ribble of Clearwater, FL; Stepdaughter Valorie Haldren of Moneta, VA Grandchildren, Ashley Safewright of Jersey City, NJ, Nick (Carolina) Ribble of Tampa, FL, Jay Ribble (Claire) of St. Petersburg, FL, Step Grandson, Andrew Haldren (Hannah) of Silver Spring, MD, Step Granddaughter, Rachel (Josh) Selby of Forest, VA, Great Grandson, Brady Ribble and Step Great Granddaughters Peyton and Olivia Selby. He is also survived by his Sister, Margaret Pauley of North Tazewell, VA

J. R. was a member of Lerona United Methodist Church in Lerona, WV and was of the Christian faith. He retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad and also loved and enjoyed farming in the Tazewell County VA area. He was a true outdoorsman in every aspect from expert lawn and garden care to hunting. He was quite the storyteller and would strike up a conversation with friends and strangers alike. He was a jokester and loved nothing more than laughing and talking with friends and family. J.R. was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed.

The family wishes to offer special thanks and recognition for the loving care given from the staff of Centra Hospice of Lynchburg.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Grandview Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, 38659 Governor George Perry Highway, Bluefield, VA 24605. A reception will follow at Lerona United Methodist Church, 6731 Hinton Rd. Lerona, WV 25971.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the LiveLike10 Foundation created to honor the life and legacy of Gabe Henderson, J.R.’s late great grandson at https://gabehendersonlivelike10.org or mailed to GHLL10 1802 Bayberry Ct., Ste.102 Richmond, VA 23226 and/or to Centra Hospice of Lynchburg, 2097 Langhorne Road, Lynchburg, VA 24501.