Melvin Tevis Hammel

Melvin Tevis Hammel, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and beloved member of his community, passed away on September 23, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by his devoted family. Born on November 4, 1947, in Vevay, Indiana, Melvin lived a life marked by profound love, unwavering faith, and dedicated service to others. Melvin was the treasured son of Melvin Lee and Portia Loraine Tevis Hammel. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved stepmother, Mary Hammel. His legacy continues through the lives of his adoring wife, Patti, to whom he was married for 58 beautiful years; their children, David (Julie) Hammel and Beth (Rush) Sutherland; and his grandchildren, Taylor (Dallis) Conner, Samantha (Patrick) Lanford, Reagan (Lucas) Ratcliffe, Ben Hammel, Jessica Hammel, and Brady and Hunter Sutherland. Melvin also leaves behind his great-grandson, Dalton Sellers, and his siblings, Sally (William) Warren, Amy (Henry) Hill, and Laura Ann (Tom) Bostic, as well as his brother-in-law, Larry (Dru) Simpkins, numerous nieces and nephews, and special family friend, Ms. Jennifer Vereen. Melvin's journey began in Bedford, Indiana, where he graduated from Bedford High School in 1965. He pursued higher education at Milligan College in Tennessee, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in English in 1969. In a testament to his lifelong commitment to learning and service, Melvin later transitioned to a career in nursing, earning an Associates Degree from Horry-Georgetown Technical College in 1995. He spent the early years of his career with the Norfolk Southern Railway system as a Yardmaster, before finding his true calling in nursing. For over two decades, Melvin dedicated himself to caring for others as a dialysis nurse at Georgetown Hospital, where he built lasting relationships with both staff and patients. A man of deep faith, Melvin was an active member of Coastal Church / First Baptist Church in Murrells Inlet. From his youth, he served the Lord with a joyful heart, often sharing his love of music by singing in church choirs and performing with his family at community events. Melvin’s passions extended beyond his professional and spiritual endeavors. He was an avid sports fan, cheering on his Clemson Tigers and delighting in watching his children and grandchildren compete. In his leisure, he found joy in working on jigsaw puzzles and caring for his cherished pets. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nursing staff at Waccamaw Community Hospital for the compassionate care provided during Melvin’s illness. In honor of Melvin’s legacy and his commitment to his church community, memorial contributions may be made to Coastal Church First Baptist Murrells Inlet Building Fund in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Melvin Hammel will be remembered for his enduring love for the Lord, his family, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and care. His memory will remain a guiding light for those who knew and loved him.