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Deacon Melvin Rudolph Pollard transitioned peacefully on Monday, January 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Melvin was the son of the late John Morgan; his mother, Dorothy Pollard Hawkins; and stepfather, Frank Hawkins, Jr.

Melvin was born on February 27, 1944, in Lynchburg, Virginia. He was preceded in death by sisters, Delores (Aaron) Hayden, Joyce (Charles) Loving, and brother, Robert Pollard.

Melvin was educated in Lynchburg Public Schools. He was a machinist who retired from Flow Serve after many years of service. He was a man with many talents working with his hands in which he was a mechanic, chef, and upholsterer.

Melvin was baptized at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church where he served faithfully until he became a member of Cross Road Baptist Church. He served wholeheartedly as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Honorary Usher, Men's Fellowship, and Kitchen Committee.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca of 68 years, daughter, Vernessa (Earl) Harvey; sons, Melvin (Vickie) Pollard, Elder Christopher (Kristina) Pollard; and daughter, Sharaina Pollard all of Lynchburg.

Melvin is survived by 14 grandchildren: Derrick, Christopher (Chantelle), Domico, Vernesha (Alex), Ashley, Dyon (Breanna), Vernita, Da'rel (Briana), Dawayne (Essence), Courtnee, Diamond, Antonnie', Akhill, and Avion. He was blessed with 19 great-grandchildren, whom they all affectionately called "Pops/Papa".

He leaves behind two sisters, Sarah (Vincent) Robenson of Chesterfield, Virginia; Frances Hawkins; brother, Frank Hawkins both of Madison Heights, Virginia; and an aunt, Doris Waller of Lynchburg. His loving and supported sisters-in-law: Frankie Andrews, Eunice (Laurence) Graves, Emma Barbour, Bernadette Christian, and Linda Christian. Two brothers-in-law, Ralph Carter, Sr. and Rodney Christian along with a host of many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Melvin Rudolph Pollard will always be remembered as a man of truth, a counselor, a helper, an artist, and his love of dancing. He will truly be missed, but forever in our hearts. We know you are dancing in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

A homegoing celebration will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Cross Road Baptist Church. He will lie in state one hour prior to the services. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Service of comfort rendered by Davis-Turner Funeral Service.