Retired USN Senior Chief Radioman Melvin Purvis Sr., 87, of Virginia Beach, Va passed away July 12, 2022.  He was born in Canoe, Alabama on May 24, 1935. He joined the Navy and became a Radioman, serving on five ships and five shore stations. In 1963 while stationed at Naval Radio Station Ft. Allen in Puerto Rico, he met and married the love of his life, Sonia Burgos.  He quickly progressed in his career as he sent and received messages using systems which evolved from Morse code to Satellite Communication Systems. In addition to other medals, while working for the Defense Communications Agency he earned the Joint Service Commendation Medal. After retirement from the Navy he was employed in Civil Service as a telecommunications manager at the Norfolk Naval Supply Center until his transfer to Commander-In-Chief U.S. Atlantic Fleet, where he retired in 1996. After retirement he enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing, playing cards with his friends, surfing the internet, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his three sons: Melvin, Arnie and girlfriend Teresa, and Robbie Sr. and wife Shannon; and his five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren: Jahiada (Michael and Mel), Brandi and husband Matt, Ashley (Shane, Aly, and AJ), Robbie Jr. (R3, Gianna, and Niko), and Jenna.

He will be cremated and his ashes interred at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, Va. There will be no viewing or funeral, but a celebration of life will be conducted at Kempsville Greens for family and loved ones on Sunday, July 17, 2022 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Fair winds and following seas to all his friends.