Melvin V. James, 82, went to be with the Lord on Monday, April 6, 2015. Melvin was born in Jacksonville on March 28, 1933 and grew up at Dames Point. He was predeceased by his mother and father John and Maude James and twin brother Millard F. James. He served in the U.S. Merchant Marines, the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. He was employed at St. Regis Paper Company and Smurfit-Stone. A profound love for his family, friends, his country, and his God- that was Melvin. He never quit, never gave up or lost his faith. He was faithful and persevered until his Heavenly Father took him home. Melvin is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marlene; his two sons, Mitchell James (Diana) and Richard James (Esther); his daughter, Rebecca Azelton (Brendan); as well as four grandchildren, Jeffrey and Bradley James, Angela Cintron (Carmelo), and Rachel Azelton who all adored him. He is also survived by his sister, Joy Ennis. Funeral services will be held Monday, April 13 at 12 pm at First Coast Christian Center, 2724 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32226 with Pastor Perry Fruscella officiating. Interment will follow at Jacksonville National Cemetery. The family will receive friends at George H. Hewell and Son Funeral Home, 4747 Main St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 on Sunday from 6-8 pm..VisitationSunday, April 12, 201506:00 PM - 08:00 PM George H. Hewell and Son Funeral Home4747 Main StreetJacksonville, FL 32206IntermentMonday, April 13, 2015 Jacksonville National Cemetery4083 Lannie RoadJacksonville, FL 32218FuneralMonday, April 13, 201512:00 PM First Coast Christian Center2724 New Berlin RoadJacksonville, FL 322264140 University Blvd S Jacksonville, FL 32216 f: 904-739-81594747 Main St N Jacksonville, FL 32206 f: 904-353-0763