Melvin Ladd Woodruff

Melvin Ladd Woodruff, age 76 of North Hall County, passed away Tuesday, March 4 following a brief illness.

Born in Hall County, Georgia on September 28, 1948, he was the son of the late William “Bill” and Bertha Ladd Woodruff. Melvin retired from Regions Bank. He was a member of Chestatee Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald and Doug Woodruff.

A graduate of Gainesville High School, Melvin began college but was soon after drafted into military service. He was a U.S. Army Veteran having served in the 101st  Airborne Division with ranking of Specialist Fifth Class. He was an avid sports enthusiast, blessed to coach and encourage his sons in their sports activities in their formative years. That love of sports continued as he supported his grandchildren in their various sporting events. “Pop”, as they called him, loved his grandkids and they loved him with all their hearts – they cherished his “fist bumps”. In addition to his love for his family, Melvin shared his faith and love for Christ through years of teaching Sunday School, serving during Vacation Bible School and singing in his church choir. 

Melvin is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joan Skinner Woodruff, of the home; sons, Ricky (Rachelle) Woodruff and Chad (Amy) Woodruff, both of Mt. Airy; seven grandchildren, Casey Woodruff, Riya Woodruff, Cooper Woodruff, Ryte Woodruff, Coby Woodruff, Sydney Gerrin, and Rennon Woodruff; two great-grandchildren, Raelynn and Jansen; one sister, Janet Woodruff of Gainesville.

Funeral services are scheduled for 3 pm Friday, March 7, at the Chestatee Baptist Church with Rev. Steve Barrett and Rev. David Skinner officiating. Interment with full military honors will take place in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday, March 6 from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 pm at Little & Davenport Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Chestatee Baptist Church in memory of Melvin.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501 is in charge of arrangements.