Melvin Lee Thompson, Sr.

Melvin Lee Thompson, Sr., age 76, was born in Lenoir County, North Carolina. He passed away peacefully on September 1, 2023, at UNC Lenoir Healthcare.

He was born and raised in Kinston, NC. A 1965 graduate of South Lenoir High School, he was a star pitcher for the varsity baseball team. After an honorable discharge from the Army, he moved to Allentown, PA where he resided for 38 years. He worked for Holiday Hair as the VP of construction and facilities for 35 years. Once retiring, he moved back 'home" to Kinston where he remained until his passing. 

Melvin enjoyed fishing, going to baseball games, watching his favorite college basketball team UNC Tarheels, and spending time with his lifelong friends.

He is survived by his daughters, Deb Connolly and husband Bill of Morehead City, North Carolina, and Tami Thompson of Emmaus, Pennsylvania; his sons, Melvin “Lee” Thompson, Jr. of Macungie, Pennsylvania, and Shawn Leadbetter and wife Meg of Whitehall, Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Will, Lexi, Faith, Connor, Malea, Kira, Gavin, Cameron, Natalee, and Kaylee; niece/sister, Barbara Ann Foyles and husband Howard; best friends, George Holland, Larry and Barbara Outlaw, Tony Prudenti, and multiple nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Brandon; his parents; siblings, and nephews.

He was very loved and will be greatly missed. 

A private memorial service will take place at a later date.