James P. Melvin Sr.

James P. Melvin Sr., 72 LEWISTON -- James P. Melvin Sr., 72, of Mechanic Falls died Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008, at Central Maine Medical Center. He was born in Rockland on May 12, 1936, the son of Winfield Scott and Marion Oxton Melvin. He graduated from Portland High School in the Class of 1954. He faithfully served his country in the U.S. Army. He was employed at U.S. Gypsum from 1958 to 1966. In 1966 he went to work at the Maine Youth Center becoming supervisor of staff, retiring in 1995. He was an avid photographer and loved the Red Sox and the Patriots. He enjoyed cooking, fishing, video games and computers. He was Second Vice Commander and Chairman of the House Committee at the American Legion Post #150 in Mechanic Falls. His family wishes to thank CMMC ICU nurses and Dr. Duval. He is survived by his longtime companion, Lillian Purington of Mechanic Falls; his daughter Susan Fecteau and her husband Gene of Windham; stepchildren, William Pray and his wife Naomi of Mechanic Falls, James B. Pray and his wife Suzanne of Greene, David Pray and his wife Sharon of Springvale, and Patrice Loughran of Springvale; 11 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two sisters, Bernice Skolfield of Cape Elizabeth and Roberta Melvin of Ft. Pierce, Fla. He was predeceased by a son, James P. 'Jay' Melvin Jr.; a stepson, Leslie A. Pray; and two brothers, Winfield and Donald. A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, Sept. 28, at 12 p.m., at the American Legion Post #150 in Mechanic Falls. Arrangements are under the direction of Weston-Chandler Funeral Home, 26 W. Dwinal St., Mechanic Falls. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.westonchandler.com. Remembrance donations can be made to the American Legion Post #150. James P. Melvin Sr.