Robert Preston Melvin

It is with somber hearts that we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Preston Melvin at his home in Sparta, NC on January 9th, 2026, following a decades long battle with illness.

Bob was born October 25th, 1940 in McRae, GA to the late Charles P. and Louise Aldred Melvin. Bob was swept away by the natural beauty of Sparta and the Blue Ridge Parkway, creating a welcoming home here. He was a tireless traveler, a talented musician playing with the "Crouse Houser Pickers", and esteemed graduate from the Gordon Military College and East Carolina University with both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Bob was a supporter of the Blue Ridge Parkway and The Alleghany Jubilee Dance Hall, and was a devoted husband. He served with distinction as an Air Police in the United States Air Force, and has achieved the masonic rank of Master Mason.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patty of the home; a son, Robert P. Melvin, Jr. of Smithfield; three step children: Laura McPherson of Sparta, Lee Martin of Bristol, TN, Lane Martin of Greensboro; a grandson, Preston Melvin of Smithfield; two step grandchildren: Ivory McPherson of Hickory, W. Dean McPherson of Sparta; two step great grandchildren, who will miss his acerbic wit and steadfast devotion.

A memorial service to honor the life of Bob will be held at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 in the chapel of Thomas Family Funeral Service with Masonic Rites conducted by Sparta Masonic Lodge #423 AF & AM. The family will receive friends from 2:30 pm until 3:00 pm prior to the service.

Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Melvin family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.
 

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