Melvin Garfield Coles, age 60, departed this life on December 3, 2025. He was born on February 6, 1965, in Louisa, Virginia, to Melvin Coles and the late Amanda L. Taylor Coles.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sons, Jamar Wright and Javarius Wright; his grandparents, Arthur and Nannie Smith Taylor, and Alexander and Virginia Pauline Waller; six uncles; and two aunts.

Affectionately known to many as "Meaty," Melvin attended the Virginia School for the Deaf, Blind, and Multi-Disabled in Hampton, Virginia. A hardworking and dedicated provider, he spent much of his life in the food service industry, working at Piccadilly, Golden Corral, and Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where he took pride in supporting his family.

Melvin was a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, but nothing in life meant more to him than the people he loved. His loyalty, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to family and friends defined who he was.

He leaves to cherish his memory his longtime girlfriend of 43 years, Delisa Wright; two devoted daughters, Tiffany Chapman (Rynard) and Jazmine Coles; eight grandchildren, Ahmund Jones, Isaiah Hunter, Jeremiah Hunter, Tre'Nard Chapman, Zion Chapman, Onri'ale Bennett, Sincere Bennett, and Unique Bennett; one great-granddaughter, Armoni Jones; three brothers, Michael Coles, Warren Coles, and Jamie Waller; five aunts; one uncle; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Melvin will be remembered for his dedication to hard work, his loyalty, and the deep love he had for his family and friends.