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Melvin J. DeLoach, Jr., 90, died peacefully in Jacksonville, Florida, Thursday March 20th, 2014. Mel was born August 2, 1923 in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Melvin J. DeLoach, Sr. and Nora DeLoach. He graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in 1942, where he was an exceptional athlete. He ran track and played football, basketball, and baseball. After he graduated from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and served during World War II. After the war, he was offered a scholarship to play football at the University of Florida, but decided to go to work for the United States Postal Service. In 1947, he joined the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, where he retired after 42 years as a Battalion Chief. Prior to his passing, he was the oldest living retired Jacksonville fireman. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Ruby Smith and Jewel Glenn, and a granddaughter, Susan DeLoach. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Edith; two sons, Joe and his wife, Barbara, and Ronnie and his wife, Darlene; eight grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, one niece, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Funeral services will be held at the Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home located at 4315 Main Street in Jacksonville, Florida on Monday, March 24th, 2014 at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow the service at Evergreen Cemetery, which is located adjacent to the funeral home. Arrangements under the direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, Jacksonville, FL.
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5 Entries
March 23, 2014
Howard Brown
Joe and family:
Though its been years since I've actually seen you I wanted to wish you and your family my condolences in the loss of your Dad. May God comfort you in your time of grieving over your Dad.
Howard Brown
March 23, 2014
Edie, Joe and Ronnie: so sorry for your loss.
we go back a few years to Lorain Street days
Gwen Pinholster Macpherson
March 23, 2014
Dear Edith, Joe & Ronnie, I was so sorry to
hear about Mel, we had worked with each other
for years, with many exciting endings that only Mel could bring on, he was a good man
who will be really missed.
Fondly to All
Cullen Chalker
March 23, 2014
Gary Pinholster
Edie, Joe and Ronnie,
So sorry to read about Mel passing away. I have many memories of him when we were neighbors growing up in North Shore. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
March 23, 2014
Judi Sikes
Edie, Joe and Ronnie, I'm so very sorry for your loss.
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