Melvin Joseph Pontiff Sr.

Melvin was originally from Franklin, LA where immediately after graduation from high school, he went into the US Air Force for 4 years. This enlistment sent him to South Carolina where he met and married his wife of 57 years, the former Shelby Jean Gowdy.

Melvin began his career in the wood industry in Pamplico, SC, followed by many years with Laminated Woods in New Bern and in 1985, when this business was sold and later closed, he and a partner bought Denny Plywood in Roseboro, NC. In 2001, he retired and came back to New Bern because he wanted to enjoy his beloved two granddaughters and “my 3 sons”.

Melvin was a family man and a loyal friend to many and chose to live a “simple life”. His only hobby was golf and the most difficult decision he made in life, was having to give up his membership at the Emerald due to health problems. He and his buddies for so long had enjoyed playing together at least 3 times a week where most of the time they chose to walk 9 holes in order to get their exercise.

Melvin was predeceased by his parents of Franklin, LA and a brother, Eric Pontiff of New Bern.

He is survived by his wife, Shelby Pontiff; three sons, Joey Pontiff (Beverly), Ronald Pontiff (Anne) and Donald Pontiff (Genevieve) all of New Bern; two granddaughters, Kelsey and Zoey, who brought so much pleasure and love to him in his retirement. He did not think a day could pass without either calling or seeing them. He was particularly worried about them when they reached their teens and knew that they would be driving soon. He constantly “preached” to them about texting and driving. He is also survived by a sister, Sheila Shinn (Tom) of Mississippi and a brother, Gary (Alice) of LA.

JoeSigns is going to miss him because he made a daily trip there where he would only stay a few minutes, but when leaving, he would always say, “I have put in my time so don’t forget my paycheck”.

The funeral service will be held Sunday, November 16, 2014 at 3 pm at Cotten Funeral Home chapel. Family will receive friends following the service at Cotten Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Shriners Children’s Hospital, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607; River Bend Baptist Church, 5001 US Hwy 17 S, New Bern, NC 28562; or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are by Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.

Online condolences may be made to the Pontiff family at www.cottenfuneralhome.com.