Melvin Franklin Flowers

Melvin Franklin Flowers

February 19, 1936 - September 3, 2024

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Melvin Franklin Flowers, who peacefully left us on September 3, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on February 19, 1936, in Gaston County. He was the son of Melvin Reid Flowers and Mary Elizabeth (Mayberry) Flowers. He left home to serve his country in 1952, experienced a lifetime of adventure, but never left his roots in Gaston County.

Frank joined the U. S. Air Force at 16, serving in Germany before transferring to the Navy, in which he made his first career as an Aviation Structural Mechanic. During his time in the Navy, he served on the aircraft carriers USS Forrestal and Bonhomme Richard, including combat tours at Yankee Station off Vietnam. He also completed two winters in Antarctica supporting scientific research as part of Operation Deep Freeze. Frank's last duty station was Quonset Point, Rhode Island. Upon retirement from the Navy, he put down new roots as a family man in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. After a full second career with the U.S. Postal Service, he returned home to retire in Gaston County.

A devout Catholic, Frank was a faithful member of his church community for most of his life. He found solace and strength in his faith, and he actively participated in church activities, contributing eagerly to the spiritual life of his parish.

Frank's interests were as varied as they were endearing. He had a green thumb and took immense joy in gardening, nurturing his plants with the same care and attention he gave to his family. He was also an enthusiast of car shows, where he marveled at automotive craftsmanship and the nostalgia of classic cars. He will be fondly remembered for his quick wit and dry sense of humor, his generosity, and faith.

Frank's greatest pride and joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his beloved daughters, Ann-Marie (spouse Raphael) and Alicia, who were the absolute light of his life. He would often say the best thing he had done with his life was having his two daughters. His legacy continues through his four cherished granddaughters, Hannah, Gia, Haleigh, and Lucie, who will forever hold "Pawpaw" in their hearts.

A funeral service will be held at Arlington Cemetery to honor Frank's life and legacy. Visitation will be held 11:00am-12:00noon, Sunday September 8, 2024, at the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service - 1503 S. York Rd., Gastonia, NC 28052. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a veteran's association of your choice, in his memory.

Melvin Franklin Flowers will be remembered as a loving father, a devoted grandfather, a proud veteran, and a preserving soul who leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories. His humor, wisdom, and unwavering love will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

May he rest in eternal peace.

Condolences may be made online at www.greenefuneral.com