Melvin L. Minnix

MINNIX, MELVIN L. "Hank", Major (Ret.), went home to be with the Lord on Aug. 24, 2009. He died peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends. Hank was a Godly man and was a member of the Haines Creek Baptist Church. He was loved, admired, and known for his warmth and compassion. He will be greatly missed. Some of Hank's many accomplishments include; BCT #10 training in Greensboro, NC., Cadet school in Maxwell, AL., Flight Line Training in MS., he attended Syracuse University, and finally arriving in Lakeland, FL., to start flying military aircraft. Hank retired from the U.S. Air Force after 21 years of service along with his small, new testament 'Combat Bible' that he always carried throughout his military career. This small bible was well worn. Hank's civilian life began in Ocala, FL in the mid 1970's when he became co-owner of Lake Datsun in Leesburg, FL. He spent the next several years owning and running a motel in Belleview, FL. and also worked as a supervisor for Dixie Lime and as a welder for Dale Hayes. Hank also donated his time to Habitat for Humanity, and was a member of Civitan for 18 years. Hank was preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Allie (Epperly) Minnix, and his brother
Kenneth Minnix. He is survived by his loving wife Clarene 'Beth' Minnix (Chavis); two sons Brad and Steve; a daughter Leslie; three sisters Violet, Cecilia, and Barbara. He is also survived by two step-sons, Les and Pete; a step-daughter Tina; and six grand children. Hank will be sorely missed by long time friends Charlie and Pat Voss of Thomasville, GA. Hank and Charlie had a friendship spanning 40 years, including good times and bad. There was a Visitation held on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2009 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Page-Theus Funeral Home. Funeral services for Hank will be held Thursday, Today, Aug. 27, 2009 at 10 a.m. in the Haines Creek Baptist Church, with Pastors Tim Jensen and Bill Peters officiating. After the service and fellowship in the church, Hank will be laid to rest at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL. at a graveside service with full military honors. The family has suggested that memorials in Hank's honor be made to Cornerstone Hospice, or the Haines Creek Baptist Church.