On May 17, 2025, Melvin Dulaney Spicer, 79, of Charlottesville, Va., completed a life well lived, one filled with steadfast love, loyalty, and devotion to his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather whose steady presence and quiet strength shaped so many beautiful memories. His legacy lives on in the family he built, the love he gave so freely, and the moments his family will always hold close.

Melvin was born on November 12, 1945, in Charlottesville, Va., to Henry and Virginia Spicer. He graduated from Albemarle High School and went on to build a 39-year career with State Farm Insurance. He proudly served for over two decades in the Virginia Army National Guard, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class and held leadership roles including Platoon Sergeant and Supply Sergeant. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and the Virginia National Guard Commendation Medal. Melvin fondly remembered the friendships formed during his National Guard service, especially summer training camps and an exchange program with a unit in Wales, UK, where they shared knowledge and skills. He was also proud to have participated in parades and ceremonies with the Monticello Guard, including welcoming Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Monticello in 1976. He completed senior-level leadership training and was honorably retired into the U.S. Army Reserve Control Group in 1986.

Melvin began dating Mildred Witter shortly after high school, and they married in 1969. Together, they created a life rooted in love, hard work, and faith. Melvin and Mildred made their home in Charlottesville, where they raised their son, Paul. After retiring, Melvin became increasingly involved with the City of Charlottesville Parks & Recreation Department, where he volunteered with the Therapeutic Recreation program for individuals with disabilities, reflecting his quiet commitment to service and compassion for others. He also enjoyed working part-time with the department's senior basketball program. He served faithfully as a longtime member and usher at University Baptist Church, where he welcomed other members and visitors with kindness. In his later years, Melvin took special pride in becoming a grandfather to Carson, who brought him endless joy and always kept him young at heart. Some of his favorite memories were C&O train rides with his father, annual family trips to Sunset Beach, N.C., exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway with his wife, enjoying BMX races with his son, and later in life, trips to Dairy Queen, his favorite excuse for a sweet treat and a drive.

Melvin is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Mildred Spicer; his son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Stuart Spicer; his granddaughter, Carson Spicer; his sister, Donna Spicer Johnson; and many nieces and nephews. His much-loved cats, Willow and Heidi, were also part of the family he cherished. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Virginia Spicer; and his sister, Carolyn Spicer Stover.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Hill & Wood Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, May 29, at 11 a.m., at University Baptist Church, 1223 W Main St, Charlottesville, VA, followed by a graveside service at Monticello Memory Gardens. Melvin's family is especially grateful to the caregivers at Morningside of Charlottesville, Trinity Hospice, and Naborforce for their compassion and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Central & Western Virginia Chapter, the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA, or by planting a tree in Melvin's memory, either through Hill & Wood, Parks & Recreation, or a tree-planting organization of your choice.