William Byrd High School Alumni
Vinton, Virginia (VA)
In Memory of
Melvin Zirkle Gregory
1934-2026
Born Feb 19, 1934, Melvin Zirkle Gregory attended William Byrd High School in Vinton, VA.
Class of 1954
Feb 19, 1934 - Jun 26, 2026
Feb 19, 1934 - Jun 26, 2026
Melvin Zirkle Gregory passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026, after a long battle with dementia at home, surrounded by his family and devoted caretakers. Melvin, the son of Joseph and Bessie Gregory, was born on February 19, 1934, and raised with his ten brothers and sisters in Vinton, Virginia.
Being from a large family, Melvin developed a strong work ethic and believed in making his own way in the world. As such he started working at an early age, often working odd jobs while still in high school. After high school and marrying his high school sweetheart, Peggy Jane Richardson, Melvin proudly served in the United States Army spending time in Germany, and receiving a Good Conduct Medal for his service.
He was a dedicated and loving husband and father, who loved the great outdoors and enjoyed walking, camping and gardening. He tried to instill a love of the outdoors and gardening in his children and grandchildren. Because of their love of both family and food, Melvin and his wife, Peggy also arranged annual July 4th and Christmas celebrations as a way to bring family together. These celebrations became the foundation of cherished memories that will be held close for years to come.
After working at the Vinton Post Office for over three decades, Melvin retired from the United States Postal Service in the late 1980's. Having never met a stranger, he made many long-lasting friends and acquaintances during his many years as a mail carrier.
He spent his many subsequent years in retirement gardening, walking, visiting yard sales to shop and chat with neighbors, and most importantly, entertaining his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His warmth, sense of humor and strength were a comfort and inspiration to all who knew him. A lifelong, faithful member of Barnhardt Baptist Church since the early 1960's, Melvin faithfully attended church services until his declining health would no longer allow it.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Peggy Richardson Gregory on April 6, 2026. Melvin also follows the passing of his son Melvin Z. Gregory, Jr., and ten brothers and sisters.
Melvin is survived by his sons, Tony Gregory (Debbie), Joseph Gregory (Barbara), daughter, Melinda Walker; grandchildren, Melanie Gregory, Justin Gregory, Jason Vaught and Travis Van Valkenburg: great grandchildren, Blake Gregory, Kyra Gregory and Selestia Hockin, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
A celebration of life will be held for both Melvin and Peggy at 2:00 PM on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Barnhardt Baptist Church in Goodview, Virginia at 1033 Brittle Street. The celebration will include a meal and reflection time that is open to all who knew and loved them both so very much.
Arrangements made by Oakey's Vinton Chapel (540) 982-2221
Being from a large family, Melvin developed a strong work ethic and believed in making his own way in the world. As such he started working at an early age, often working odd jobs while still in high school. After high school and marrying his high school sweetheart, Peggy Jane Richardson, Melvin proudly served in the United States Army spending time in Germany, and receiving a Good Conduct Medal for his service.
He was a dedicated and loving husband and father, who loved the great outdoors and enjoyed walking, camping and gardening. He tried to instill a love of the outdoors and gardening in his children and grandchildren. Because of their love of both family and food, Melvin and his wife, Peggy also arranged annual July 4th and Christmas celebrations as a way to bring family together. These celebrations became the foundation of cherished memories that will be held close for years to come.
After working at the Vinton Post Office for over three decades, Melvin retired from the United States Postal Service in the late 1980's. Having never met a stranger, he made many long-lasting friends and acquaintances during his many years as a mail carrier.
He spent his many subsequent years in retirement gardening, walking, visiting yard sales to shop and chat with neighbors, and most importantly, entertaining his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His warmth, sense of humor and strength were a comfort and inspiration to all who knew him. A lifelong, faithful member of Barnhardt Baptist Church since the early 1960's, Melvin faithfully attended church services until his declining health would no longer allow it.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Peggy Richardson Gregory on April 6, 2026. Melvin also follows the passing of his son Melvin Z. Gregory, Jr., and ten brothers and sisters.
Melvin is survived by his sons, Tony Gregory (Debbie), Joseph Gregory (Barbara), daughter, Melinda Walker; grandchildren, Melanie Gregory, Justin Gregory, Jason Vaught and Travis Van Valkenburg: great grandchildren, Blake Gregory, Kyra Gregory and Selestia Hockin, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
A celebration of life will be held for both Melvin and Peggy at 2:00 PM on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Barnhardt Baptist Church in Goodview, Virginia at 1033 Brittle Street. The celebration will include a meal and reflection time that is open to all who knew and loved them both so very much.
Arrangements made by Oakey's Vinton Chapel (540) 982-2221