Mr. Melvin Thorne, son of the late James and Jonnie Sue Thorne, was born on February 22, 1947. He departed this life on Friday, September 1, 2023 at his home surrounded by family and friends.

Melvin attended and graduated from Halifax County Public Schools. After graduation, he joined the United States Army on September 30, 1967. During his military career, he drove trucks in the Vietnam War, which later led to his passion for driving. Over the course of many years, Melvin drove eighteen wheeler trucks for Builders Transport in Halifax, North Carolina and many other trucking companies.

Melvin joined New Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Samuel McClain. His pastor now is Pastor Charles Lowe. Melvin loved being in the presence of his church family. He drove the church van for many years, where he safely transported members to church on Sundays, Bible Study, Sunday School, and any other events at New Bethel Baptist Church. He was very passionate about driving. Melvin loved to drive, sing in the male chorus, and he served on the deacon board. He was a faithful member until his health started failing.

In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by a wife, Mrs. Glorious Jean Thorne; son, Melvin Thorne; and niece, Janet Gibson.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Carol Thorne; his daughter by his first wife, Towanda Thorne-James (Jenorris) of Montgomery, Alabama; one sister, Dorothy Goode of Jamaica, New York; a granddaughter, Aisassa Carter of Phildelphia, PA; his children by marriage to his second wife, Sandra Burnette (Allen) of Enfield, NC, Michael Pittman (Evelyn) of Pinetops, NC, Priscilla Bell (Anthony) of Fayetteville, NC, Christopher Pittman (Sonya) of Enfield, NC, Velma Hudson (Jerry) of Enfield, NC; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and, friends, as well as his caregiver, Mary Hayes.

A Funeral Service was held on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 2:00 pm at New Bethel Baptist Church, 16419 US Highway 301, Enfield, North Carolina.  A Public Viewing was held on Friday, September 8, 2023 in the chapel of Lea and Pope Funeral Home from 5:00 pm  – 7:00 pm. Burial followed the service in the Cedarview Cemetery, 248 Meyer Street, Enfield, North Carolina. Arrangements were handled by Lea and Pope Funeral Home, Enfield, North Carolina. Send condolences to www.leapopefuneralhome.com.