Melvin "Mel" Dwain Garvin was born June 17, 1951 at Travis Air Force Base, Vallejo, California to Alfred M. Garvin and Iva Nell (Trickey) Garvin. Mel graduated high school at Alhamba High in 1970, while living in Martinez, California. After high school he joined the U.S. Navy as a submariner and served throughout the Pacific theatre, while stationed at Pearl Harbor, HI.

Upon completing his service, Mel returned to Jacksonville, Arkansas and worked for his fathers construction company for a short period of time, prior to joining the Jacksonville Police Department as a patrol officer.

Mel then moved on from JPD to join the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department as a deputy sheriff. After a few years, Mel left PCSO to join the Arkansas State Police, where he served in many exciting roles during his 27 year tenure. Upon retiring in 2007 he and his wife, Sherry, set out on an adventure of full time RVing.

Mel is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sherry Lynn Garvin of Lone Oak, TX, Son Patrick Garvin (Brandi) of Mckinney, TX, Grandson Hunter Garvin (Tori) of Spokane Valley, WA, Granddaughters Madilyn and Molly Garvin of Mckinney, TX, and Great Grandchildren Layla, Uriah, and Iva Rose Garvin of Spokane Valley, WA. He was preceded in death by his father Alfred M. Garvin and Iva Nell (Trickey) Garvin, both of Jacksonville, AR, brothers Roger Garvin of Jacksonville, AR, and Charlie Garvin of Searcy, AR, and Grandson Max Garvin of Conway, AR. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Chapel Hill Memorial Park in Jacksonville, AR on Friday July 26, 2024 at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you consider a donation to either the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia. Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the guest book.