Melvin Hayman Ripley, Sr., 96, husband of Evelyn Mae (Cash) Ripley of Campbell Street, passed away Friday, December 21, 2018 in Augusta Health.
Mr. Ripley was born in Ronceverte, West Virginia on May 8, 1922, a son of the late Walter Gordan and Grace (Ellis) Ripley.
Melvin retired from DuPont Company in 1985 with 35 years of service and was a veteran of the United States Army, serving his country proudly during WWII. Mr. Ripley enjoyed keeping his yard immaculate and liked helping his neighbor's with their yard projects. He was known in his community as a friend willing to help the elderly. "Mr. Ripley will be remembered by his family for his gentleness, kindness and love shown towards his family."
In addition to his parents and step-mother, Mrs. Alma Ripley-Kirby, Melvin was preceded in death by a son, Melvin H. "Butch" Ripley, Jr.; his twin brother, Marvin, a second brother, Gordon; and four sisters, Helen, Eileen, Millie and Margaret.
He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Surviving in addition to his wife of 74 years is a daughter, Linda (Ripley) Lynch of Roanoke; three grandchildren, "Missy" Altice and her husband Eric. "P.J." Lynch and his wife Beckee, and Melissa Ripley and her companion David Shifflett; and nine great-grandchildren, Ashleigh, Noah, Cameron, Alex, Brianna, Carter, Luka, Norah and Micah.
A funeral service will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 28, 2018 in the Coffman Funeral Home Chapel by the Rev. William "Bill" Trice.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service and burial will follow in Augusta Memorial Park.
It is suggested those desiring make memorial contribution to the Alzheimer's Association, Central and Western Virginia Chapter, 1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 306, Charlottesville, Virginia 22901.
Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton, is in charge of his arrangements.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.coffmanfuneralhome.net.