Melvyn Jay Shumate

Melvyn Jay Shumate, age 85, of Lester, WV passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

Melvyn was born December 2, 1938, in Sophia, WV to the late James C. and Jane Shumate. The eldest of five children. He was a graduate of Sophia High School and served his country in the United States Army.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley Nichols Shumate and his second wife, Freida May Shumate. Also, his grandson, RJ Shuck.

Melvyn is survived by his three daughters, Teresa Hart of Coal City, Kimberly Graham and husband, Bill of Lester and Michelle Hart of Yorktown, VA. Other survivors include his brothers, James Shumate of Akron, OH, Joel Shumate and wife, Thelma of Shady Spring, Barry Shumate and wife, Terry of Eden, NC; and a sister, Shelia Shumate of Sedona, Arizona.

His favorite pass time was his love of music. Melvyn played the guitar and banjo and was a huge Blue Grass fan. He played with several local groups over the years, and he played and sang at several local churches in the area. He was a member of the Maple Meadow Chapel.

Services to celebrate the life of Melvyn Jay Shumate will be held 2:00PM Monday, January 29, 2024 at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley with Rev. Ronnie Wood officiating. Following the services Melvyn will be laid to rest at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley.

Friends may gather with the family from 1:00PM until time of the service Monday at the funeral home.

Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C Byrd Drive, Beckley is honored to be serving the family.