Melvin Wansley Gaines

Melvin Wansley Gaines, 67, was born March 10, 1959 to the late Jack and Magdalene Gaines in Anderson, SC.

Melvin graduated from McDuffie High School and spent many years working at Equinox, Wellington Mills, and Plastic Omnium. He ensured that his family was taken care of and worked tirelessly to provide his family with everything they needed. Not known as a man for complaining, he simply worked to make the impossible possible.

Melvin was a devoted husband and father. He stood by the mantra of “in sickness and health” by caring for his wife Mahalia, often ensuring she was taken care of when she experienced sickness. That love extended to his boys who he loved with all of his heart. Being a great father to each one of them was something he took very seriously. He later was blessed to be called “Papa” by his grandchildren. That title was worn by “Papa” as a badge of honour.

He leaves to cherish his loving wife, Mahalia Galloway Gaines of 45 years, 3 sons, Roderick (Tywanda), Kevin (SheKinah), and Leonard (Tamara). 10 grandchildren: Tylic, Ocran, Kevin Jr., Isaiah, Tyler, Bradley, Trenton, McKinnley, Kevon, and Addison Galloway. Bonus grandchildren: Elijah Mance, Jacquan Cowan, Jactavius Cowans, Jayla Jones, Brenasia Hester and 3 great grandsons. 4 sisters: Georgia Mae Gaines, Julia Gaines, Marie Smith, Dixie Lee Gaines; 1 brother: Vernon Gaines; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and other loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents Jack Gaines Sr. and Magdalene Gaines, sisters Bessie Lee Gaines, Mary Sue (Walter) Kennedy; brothers Jack Gaines, Jr., James Lee Gaines, Clyde Gaines and Charles Brown.

The family is at 104 Baybrooke Lane, Anderson, SC  29621.

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