Melvin Maurice Harris

HARRIS, Melvin M., 83, of Richmond, departed this life and was received by his Lord on Wednesday, October 19, 2011. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Nellie Taylor Harris. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Steven M. and Mary E. Harris, and their son, Sean; daughter, Kathleen G. Harris, and son Timothy T. Harris, all of Richmond; and numerous treasured nieces, nephews, and friends.

A graduate of John Marshall High School, "Dubby" was a member of the Cadet Corps. Following service in the post-World War II Allied occupation of Germany and Austria, he obtained an associate degree at the University of Richmond. He was employed by Bank of Virginia and DuPont, retiring from Reynolds Metals Company after 35 years of service. Mel served as secretary-treasurer of the Greater Richmond Bowling Association and became a Life Member and Hall of Fame inductee. He served as Virginia State Bowling Association president, and was a life member. His first sports love was baseball. A lifelong Boston Red Sox fan, Mel played high school baseball and pitched semi-professionally for various corporate teams in the 1950s and 1960s.

Mel was baptized at Ridge Baptist Church, where he was a longtime member. His devotion to his wife and children, playful humor, steadfast faith, and strength of character were blessings to those who knew him. His family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Parham Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 1771 Parham Rd., where funeral services will be held Monday, October 24, 2011 at 11 a.m. Interment Westhampton Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ridge Baptist Church in Richmond.