Melvin “Bubba” Douglas Ward of Glen Allen, Va passed away peacefully on Friday, December 3, 2021, surrounded by his family.

Melvin was born October 16, 1934 in Richmond, Va to Ruth McCall Ward and Douglas Owen Ward. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters, Imogene Ward Brown and Elmira Ward Norrell. Melvin is survived by his loving wife Jane Blankenship Ward; his son Marc Jason Ward (Wendy) of Chesterfield, Va, stepdaughter Angela Chilton Ryckman of Richmond, Va; his grandchildren and great grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Melvin is a graduate of Maggie L Walker High School and attended Virginia Union University, where he was a valued member of many clubs and organizations, and was also a talented musician, performing as a singer with the group “The Flickers”. He then went on to serve his country in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Upon completion of his Air Force service, Melvin joined the US Postal Service in Richmond Va, where he received multiple prestigious awards and served in numerous leadership roles for more than 40 years. After his retirement from the US Postal Service, Melvin continued to give back to his community as a special education teacher with Richmond City Public Schools.

Melvin was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching football, basketball, and boxing with his son Marc. He was a passionate Jazz enthusiast and was a long time supporter of the Richmond Jazz Society. Melvin was fiercely devoted to his family and friends, and his kindness, integrity, and work ethic made him a mentor and role model to many.

A celebration of Melvin’s life will be held from 3-5pm on Friday December 10, 2021 at Scott’s Funeral Home at 115 East Brookland Park Blvd in Richmond, Va. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the National Kidney Foundation, or a charity of your choice.