Melvin James passed away peacefully surrounded by family Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, at UF Health Cardiology – Heart & Vascular Hospital in Gainesville, Fla. He was a graduate of Howard High School (Class of 1964) and served in the United States Army.
Melvin is survived by his wife Renee Parks – James; Daughters Carol James, Meltonia James- King; Stepdaughter Tasha L West; Stepson Terell A. Akins.
Grandchildren: Sierra N. Holmes, Andrea R. Laster, Cam’ron D. King, Levi N. West III, Aaron A. Akins, Elijah T. West, Andrew K Akins. Brother Bobby L. James (Veronica).
He leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends to cherish his memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held at New Zion Missionary Baptist on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 10:00 am. Interment will be immediately following the service at The Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Fl.
Visitation and will be held on Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, at Hadley-Brown Funeral Home from 5:00PM until 7:00PM.
Professional services are entrusted to Hadley-Brown Funeral Home. “Providing Unparalleled Service and Compassion”
Editor’s note: James was the early farm trainer of Triple Crown-winning Florida-bred Affirmed with many milestones in the industry. To read more about his life, click here.
Return to the October 9 issue of Wire to Wire
