Melvin Gray Coates

Melvin Gray Coates, 87, of Concord passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Lynchburg General Hospital. He was the husband of Rebecca Ferrell Coates.
Born in Gladys, VA on January 17, 1938, he was the son of the late Peyton Coates and Nellie Cunninham Bryant. He was a member of New Concord Presbyterian Church. Melvin was an avid sportsman and especially a great fisherman. He served his country as a Navy Pilot in the United States Navy. Melvin loved gardening. He enjoyed sharing his free produce stand at his driveway.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, Paula Coates Hunter and husband, Howlett, Clarence Coates and wife, Wanda all of Concord, and Kimberley Coates Warrington and husband, Tim of Creedmoor, NC; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a brother, Peyton Coates “Pete”.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Jimmie Coates; and a granddaughter, Molly Sullivan.
A memorial service will be held 2pm, Thursday, September 18, 2025, at New Concord Presbyterian Church with Rev. Shelton Miles officiating.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers please consider making memorial donations to Daily Bread Food Pantry, Lynchburg, VA https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=TX6CA2J3YYJVA or By His Hands Food Pantry, c/o Rocks Baptist Church, 393 Rocks Church Rd, Pamplin, VA 23958.
Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family, www.robinsonfuneral.com