Melvin Lewis English, age 69 of Bedford, departed this life on Monday, March 23, 2020 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was preceded in death by his parents, Levi Thomas English and Edna Burdette English. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Robinson English; brothers: James, Edward, Ronnie and Daniel English; one sister, Katherine English.

He was educated in the Bedford County Public School Systems. He was employed by and later retired from, Smyth Company; where he was a Sheeter Operator.

Melvin loved being around his family and numerous friends. His favorite hobbies were: playing cards, playing the lottery and fishing. Being a kindhearted person, Melvin, was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Left to cherish his memory are: one daughter, Renee Murphy of Roanoke, VA; one son, Tommy Thompson of Fincastle, VA; one stepdaughter, Renee Carper; one stepson, Dale Carper both of Bedford; five grandchildren: Alexis Gill, Breon Kizzie, Adrian Thompson, Frank Carper and Shane Stith; three grandchildren (he called his own): Isiah, Nautica and Nathan Alston; four great-grandchildren: Za'Kai, Zyvaire, Shamiya and Jayden; three sisters: Gracie Williams, Lee Nicholson both of Roanoke, VA and Marie King (husband, Edgar) of Athens, TN; five brothers: Ben English (wife, Margaret), Henry English both of Roanoke, Ralph English (friend, Shirley Bonds) of Moneta, VA, Gary English of Bedford, VA and Ray Arrington (wife, Rosa) of Roanoke, VA; a devoted niece and caregiver, Kim Taylor (husband, Wayne) of Moneta, VA; six sisters-in-law, Polly Johnson (husband, Oscar), Rosa Carson (husband, Robert), Myrtle Leftwich, Brenda Robinson, Phyllis Robinson and Ann Robinson all of Bedford; devoted cousin, Kenny Burdette; devoted neighbors: Gary and Betty Overstreet, Mrs. Hannah Johnson and Dr. Luth; many devoted nieces, nephews and numerous friends.