Melvin Ray Emerson

Mr. Melvin Ray Emerson, age 80, of Java, Virginia, passed on November 8, 2020 at Centra Hospital of Farmville.

Mr. Emerson was born on August 9, 1940, in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, to the late Essie Elizabeth Herndon Emerson and George Melvin Emerson.  He lived most of his life in Pittsylvania County, where he was a faithful member of New Testament Baptist Church. Serving as a member of Teamster’s Local Union 639, Mr. Emerson worked for United Rigging and Hauling for the entirety of his life as a rigger and truck driver. At other times, you could find him enjoying his passion for many hobbies. He was an avid outdoorsman where he loved to hunt, fish, shoot guns, and ride his horse.   

Mr. Emerson is survived by his children, Kirk Emerson, Lance Emerson, Brian Mahoney and Michele Emerson; grandchildren, Amanda Emerson and Hannah Emerson; great grandchildren, Anthony Atkins, Caleb Atkins, Elena Atkins, Abel Atkins, Mason Matherly, Liam Matherly, Destiny Emerson and Landon Emerson; brother, Jerry Emerson; and nephew, Troy Mendanall.  

In addition to his parents, Mr. Emerson was predeceased by his sister, Margie Emerson.

Graveside services will be conducted Saturday, November 14, 2020 at 11 AM at Danville Memorial Gardens with Pastor Lee Vonemie officiating.

The family would like to request that any donations be made to the Department of Wildlife Resources (P.O. Box 90778, Henrico, VA 23228-0778) or by planting a memorial tree in the memory of Mr. Melvin Ray Emerson (This may be done by visiting www.swicegood-barker.com under the tribute store)

Swicegood Funeral Service is respectfully serving the Emerson family. 

Please sign the guestbook at www.swicegood-barker.com, www.facebook.com/swicegoodbarker, and www.godanriver.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melvin Ray Emerson, please visit our floral store.