Norris L. Melvin Sr.

Grieve Not, nor speak of me with tears, but laugh and talk of me as if I were beside you... I loved you so-- 'twas Heaven here with you. -Isla Paschal Richardson It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Norris L. Melvin Sr., a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, who left us on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, after a brief stay at Coastal Hospice at the Lake after a long battle with cancer. Born on September 13, 1937, in Harrington, Delaware, Norris was a son of the late Elma Baynard Melvin and Clarence R. Melvin. Norris grew up attending Delmar schools before graduating from Wicomico High School with the class of 1956, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey filled with dedication and hard work. He first entered the realm of service as the owner of the Delmar Sunoco before transitioning to work for Trigila Transportation, then a career in transportation that culminated with his many years of service as an engineer on the railroad. Over the decades, he faithfully represented various names in the industry, including the Penn Railroad, Penn Central, Norfolk Southern, and Conrail before his well-deserved retirement in 1999. In addition to his professional contributions, Norris was an active member of several local organizations, including the Over-the-Hill Softball League and the R.O.M.E. Breakfast Club. He cherished his time spent with the mall walking club and was a proud participant in regular lunch meetings with his classmates. Norris's commitment to his community was further exemplified through his involvement with the Delmar Historical and Arts Society, and as a faithful member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Delmar. He was a past member of the Delmar Fire Department as well. Norris had a zest for life that was reflected in his passions, which included NASCAR and gardening. He was deeply devoted to his family and took immense pride in his children and grandchildren, always supporting their school and sports aspirations. Those who knew him will remember his wonderful sense of humor, warm smile, and the genuine kindness he extended to all. Norris is survived by his loving spouse of 60 years, Charlotte Neill Melvin, and his beloved children, Alisa Bloodsworth (David), Brian Melvin (Chris) and Lee Melvin (Darlene); brother, Bill Melvin (Edna); grandchildren, Aaron Casper (Dixie), Jaime Kennedy (Brian), David Bloodsworth (Emily), Alison Bloodsworth (Derek), Jesse Jones (Lauren), Lee Lee Cauffman (Cody), Kati Melvin (Brooks), Brianna Reed (Jordan), Brian Melvin, Jr., Alexis Melvin (Dustin), and Amanda Melvin; 14 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and a host of close friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his very special grandmother who raised him, Florence Melvin; his first wife, Mary "Dolly" Melvin; stepmother, Evelyn Melvin; brother, John Melvin; stepdaughter, Tammy Casper; and stepbrother, Richard Gray. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 at Short Funeral Home in Delmar. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Church in Delmar. Christian burial will follow at Springhill Memory Gardens in Hebron. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and share their memories during this time of remembrance. In honoring his legacy, let us reflect on the laughter and warmth he brought into our lives and carry forward the values he instilled in us: love for family, community support, and a spirit of joy. Norris will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched. The family requests donations be made in memory of Norris to be sent to the Richard Henson Cancer Institute at TidalHealth by visiting https://www.tidalhealth.org/about-us/donate. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.

Norris L. Melvin Sr.

September 13, 1937 - April 30, 2025