Melvin Dwight Persinger, age 80, of Covington, died Monday, April 14, 2025, at his residence.

He was born July 13, 1944, in Alleghany County, and was preceded in death by his parents, the late Jasper Persinger, Sr. and Louvenia Fairburn Persinger; his wife, Gloria Morse “Kitten” Persinger; a son, Melvin R. Persinger.

Melvin was a helicopter mechanic in the Navy on the USS Randolph ship. He was an employee for twenty years at the former Hercules, Inc. until they closed and he then worked many jobs as a millwright and as a mechanic. He was a faithful member of Mallow Presbyterian Church where he has served as a Deacon; Elder, and a Sunday School teacher over the years. In his spare time, he enjoyed being a member of Kars Unlimited and the Alleghany Cruisers. He loved wood working and was an avid Studebaker fan and collector.

He leaves to mourn his loss, two sons, Michael (Tammy) Persinger of Buena Vista and Mark (Traci) Persinger of Daleville; a daughter, Michelle (Richie) Cauthers of Ritch Patch; seven grandchildren. Corey, Cameron, Dylan, Chloe, Cristi Persinger, Alex and Claudia Cauthers; one great grandchild, Ian Persinger; three brothers, Jasper (Alice) Persinger, Frank Persinger and George (Shirley) Persinger of Covington; nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous other family members and a special cat, Tia.

Keeping with the wishes of Mr. Persinger his body has been cremated.

A memorial service will be held, Saturday, April 19, 2025 at 1:00 PM, with the Rev. Gary Marshall officiating at the Mallow Presbyterian Church.

The family will receive friends at 12:00 PM, one hour prior to the service.

The family request that memorial contributions be made to Mallow Presbyterian Church, 2004 Mallow Road, Covington, VA 24426 in lieu of flowers in memory of  Mr. Melvin Dwight Persinger.

Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted to handle the arrangements for Mr. Persinger.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at arrittfuneral.com.