Melvin Lorenzo Gregory
February 06, 1964 - August 03, 2026

On Monday, August 3, 2026, Melvin Lorenzo Gregory, age 62, entered eternal rest at Wayland
Nursing Home, in Keysville, Virginia.. He was born on February 6, 1964, in Charlottesville, Virginia, to Vernell and Sally Gregory Anderson. Throughout his life, Melvin fought many difficult battles with strength, courage, and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, he lived a long and adventurous journey filled with meaningful relationships and lasting memories.

Melvin was known for his kind heart, unique personality, and willingness to help others whenever he could. He made many friends, throughout his life, who appreciated and loved him for exactly who he was. He enjoyed music, especially the gospel song “Something About the Name of Jesus,” and could always appreciate a good orange soda. Above all, he valued the people around him and the connections he built with family and friends.

One of Melvin’s greatest wishes was to become a member of St. Douglas Baptist Church. That heartfelt wish was fulfilled on July 31, 2026, just days before his passing. His family finds comfort in knowing that this prayer was answered and that he was able to publicly affirm his faith before entering eternal rest.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sally Anderson; father, Verneil Anderson; brother, Larry Anderson; and sister, Priscilla Washington. Melvin leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved son; Trashaun Fowlkes, and his cherished “hearts,” Zyair and Dakarai. He also leaves behind: his loving brother, Steve Anderson (Barbara Anderson) and sister, Sylvia Anderson (Kim Austin) all of Dillwyn, Virginia; adopted mother, Senie Mae Fowlkes; adopted brother, Robert Wilburn; adopted sister, Oneewa Wilburn; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Melvin also leaves behind devoted friends who remained by his side through the years, including Tyrell, Sheila, Glen, Annie Brown, Travis, Jermaine, Darrell, Maurice, and Gerald. His family extends heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers, Tracey Fowlkes, Charisma Fowlkes, Alvina Rice, Sandra Fowlkes, and Elnora Townsend, whose compassion and care meant so much throughout his journey.
He is also lovingly remembered by: his aunts, Jean Gregory (his favorite aunt), Mildred Johnson, Lil Minnie Gregory, and Sally Gregory, and his uncle, Otis Anderson.

Though Melvin is no longer with us in body, his spirit, kindness, and the memories he created will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His legacy of perseverance, friendship, faith, and love will continue to live on through those whose lives he touched.

Funeral Service: August 9, 2026

02:30 PM

Bland-Reid Funeral Home
413 Griffin Boulevard
Farmville, VA 23901

Interment: August 10, 2026

10:00 AM

Baptist Union Baptist Church
125 Baptist Union Rd
Dillwyn, VA 23936