Melvin Lewter, 81, of Suffolk, transitioned Thursday, Oct. 5, 2017, at Concordia Transitional Care and Rehabilitation (Nansemond Pointe). He was the son of the late Charlie T. Lewter Sr. and Lillie Peele Lewter. He was predeceased by a sister, Clarine Artis, and five brothers, Charlie T. Lewter Jr., Elton Lewter, Clyde Lewter, Rawley Lewter and Chester Lewter.

He retired from Newport News Shipyard. He was a member of Tabernacle Christian Church. He was a past member of the Mount Vernon Lodge No. 48 PHA.

He leaves to cherish his memory two devoted nephews, Zann Lewter and Thomas (Wendell) Lewter, and his last surviving brother, Wallace Lewter Sr.; one daughter, Cynthia Bowser (Ralph); grandchildren, Derwin Bowser Sr. and Ryan Bowser; great-grandchildren, Sierra Gatling, Jakyra Bowser, Derwin Bowser Jr., Deziya Bowser; one great-great-grandchild; a special friend, Helena Joyner; a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

A funeral will be held Saturday, Oct. 14, at 11 a.m. at Crocker Funeral Home officiated by his nephew, Bishop Dr. Vernon Artis. Interment will be in Carver Memorial Cemetery. Crocker Funeral Home Inc. is handling the arrangements. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.crockerfuneralhome.com.