Melvin Eugene Church

Melvin Eugene Church, 88, of Drakes Branch VA, entered into God’s Kingdom on Dec. 1st, 2023, where he lived with his daughter and son-in-law at their home in Stanley, North Carolina. Melvin was born November 13, 1935, to Chelsie & Callie Church of Keysville VA. He was proceeded in death by his first wife Connie Redmond Church and his brother Roy Church. Melvin was born November 13, 1935, to Chelsie & Callie Church of Keysville VA.

Melvin, the most loving, Godly and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather is survived by his second wife, Nancy B. Church, his daughter, Cindy C. Owens and her husband, James E. Owens Jr., his daughter, Marlena Sherwood and her husband, Chris Sherwood, his two grandsons, Dale Sherwood, and Jeffrey Sherwood, wife, Kate and great-grandson, Jack. In addition, he is also survived by his brother, Freddy Church and wife Betty, brother, John Elden Church, and his sister, Ola Mae Hanks and her husband, Bobby.

Even though Melvin was a man of few words, he had the personality and natural charisma to make friends regardless of the situation. Melvin dedicated his life on doing God’s will. This included over 50 years of serving as a Deacon and Deacon Emeritus at Friendship Baptist Church, as well as driving the church van and tending to the grounds and facilities. Melvin was a dedicated provider for his family and continued to set the example of a fine Christian until his final breath.

Melvin was a truly great man of faith and his impact will be forever felt by his family, church and community. He was a selfless man whose passing leaves an empty gap in the hearts of his loved ones. His ability to sacrifice, provide, support, forgive, and love will be forever engrained in all that knew him.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, December 5, 2023, in Friendship Baptist Church, Drakes Branch, VA, interment will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the funeral service.  The Browning-Duffer Funeral Home in Keysville, VA is in charge of arrangements.