Gloria B. Melvin

Gloria B. Melvin passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. She was born on September 17, 1935, in Marianna, Florida. Gloria's life was marked by her passion for giving back to the community, her devotion to her family and her unwavering love for the Lord.

Gloria attended school in Jackson County and graduated from Marianna High School in 1953. Her professional journey started with the Jackson County School Board, where she served for three decades. Towards the end of her career, she specialized in Adult Education. Gloria also volunteered as a tutor for Literacy of America, where she helped students prepare for standardized testing to obtain their GED. She was devoted to education and the joy of learning.

Gloria was known for her independence, love of family, and faith. In her spare time, she could be found worshipping and reading. She was a proud member of the Piney Grove Baptist Church, where her husband Dr. Willis Ferrell Melvin Sr was a minister. They served together for over 33 years. An avid reader, Gloria firmly believed in the power of books and emphasized their importance to her son and grandchildren. Additionally, she adored helping others. A few of her favorite ways to spread kindness were to donate to charities, and curate seasonal floral arrangements for friends and family.

Gloria was most proud of her role as a wife, mother and grandmother (or "Nonnie"). She delighted in her grandchildren in ways she never allowed with her own son. As children, Trey and Mallory would jump on the bed right in front of her. When their father reminded her that she never let him do that growing up, her response was simply, "This is different." She attended nearly all sporting events, dance recitals, school ceremonies, and extracurriculars. Gloria's house was filled with photos of her family. Her refrigerator remained covered in drawings from her grandchildren's childhood. Her love was steadfast and unconditional. Anyone who knew Gloria knew how proud she was of her husband, son and grandchildren.

Gloria is preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Dr. Willis F. Melvin Sr., who passed away November 1, 1994. She is also reunited with her father, E.T. Brock; mother, Lola Hill; brother, Gary Brock; and sister, Gail Lord.

Gloria is survived by her son, Willis F. Melvin Jr; grandchildren, Willis F. Melvin III (Trey) and Mallory Melvin; sister, Jo Ann Swearingen; and brother, Stan Brock.

A graveside service will be 2:00 PM, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery, 3006 New Hope Road, Marianna, FL 32448, with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.