Mr. Melvin John Chaney

Born October 8, 1948, in Sumter South Carolina, Melvin John Chaney was the second of six of the Late Mrs. Estelle Ballard Chaney and Mr. Francis Chaney, Sr. He lived by the principle, “If I can’t help you, I won’t hurt you.” Known affectionately as “Bubba” or Mr. Chaney, Melvin began his education at St. Jude Catholic School and graduated in the Class of 1966 and furthered it at Benedict and Morris Colleges. In 1967, he enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably until he was discharged in 1969, due to severe injuries sustained during the Vietnam War. He was born Christian raised and educated in the Roman Catholic Faith. His family were lifelong members of St. Jude Roman Catholic Church and he served as an Altar Boy and Crucifer. On November 7, 2020, he was united in matrimony to Lourena Nelson and their union blended a family of six children. In May of 2022, he felt inspired to become a member of Mechanicsville United Methodist Church following his union with his wife, Lourena N. Chaney. He was also a committed member of the St. Paul Lodge Prince Hall affiliated (PHA), the oldest active lodge in the state. Melvin J. Chaney was recognized as a lifetime member and played a pivotal role in the mortgage liquidation of St. Paul Free and Accepted Masons. Melvin had a passion for deep-sea fishing, playing pool, traveling, motorcycling, and engaging in lively conversations with friends. However, His favorite get away was Aruba. He leaves to cherish precious memories, his cherished wife, Lourena Nelson Chaney; Gable, SC; daughters, Natasha Chaney of Sumter, SC, and Lastelle Nicole Chaney of Columbia, SC; son, Melvin Keith Chaney of Columbia, SC; three stepsons, Fancy (Mary) English, III, Sumter, SC, DeVane (Monica) English of Panama City, Panama, and Kenneth (Nicole) English of Elgin, SC; five grandchildren; brother, Donald Chaney of Sumter; sister, Celestine Jackson of Sumter; two brothers-in-law, Otis J. Nelson, Jr. and Rev. Dwight A. (Flora) Nelson; a close friend Col. Temple Evans and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Shervy Lee, Francis, Jr. and Charles Chaney. Melvin passed away on July 31st at 6:25 am in the Warriors Walk Wing of Dorn Veteran Medical Hospital in Columbia, SC. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones and all who cherished him. He will remain forever in our hearts.

Mr. Melvin John Chaney

October 8, 1948 - July 31, 2024