James Melvin Hobson

James Melvin Hobson, 87, of Roanoke, Va., passed peacefully away on Tuesday, January 27, 2009. He was predeceased by his parents, James Albert Hobson and Lura Wood Hobson; and three brothers, Royce, Raymond and Clyde Hobson. During World War II, he served in the United States Army Air Corps. A member of Riverdale Baptist Church, he served as an usher and greeter. He was retired from General Electric. Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Berkley M. Hobson; sons, James Melvin Hobson Jr., of Rocky Mount, and John Richard Hobson, of Roanoke; four grandsons, John Richard Hobson Jr., James Albert Hobson, Jason Eugene Hobson and Royce Melvin Hobson; granddaughter, Casie Dietrich; and four great-grandchildren, Jeffrey, Rachel, Nathan and Elana. Memorials may be made to Riverdale Baptist Church, 1624 Eagerton Ave., S.E., Roanoke, Va. 24014. The graveside service will be held 2 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2009, in Evergreen Burial Park. The Rev. Robert W. Lanier and the Rev. Sam Harvey will officiate. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2009, at Oakey's North Chapel, 540-362-1237.