G. Melvin Herndon

G. Melvin Herndon, age 84, of Athens, passed away on February 12, 2011 at Athens Regional Medical Center, following a brief illness. Mr. Herndon was born on May 22, 1926 in Danville, Va., to Harvey and Elizabeth Herndon. He served his country with honor during World War II in the U.S. Army, where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. After his time in the service, he graduated from Lynchburg College under the GI Bill, worked as a supervisor trainee for Dan River Mills, and taught at Aldie High School. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. Upon completion of his education, he was a Professor of History at the University of Georgia from 1964-1988. He retired from the University of Georgia in 1988 as Professor Emeritus. After retirement, he enjoyed reading, gardening, playing the guitar, piddling in his shop, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Roger Herndon. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jacquelyn Hutchison Herndon; daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Ronny Just; son and daughter-in-law, Kerry and Angie Herndon; sister and brother-in-law, Elaine and H.B. Satterfield; sister-in-law, Mary Lee Herndon; and grandchildren, Meghan Just, Matthew Just, and Drew Herndon. Services took place on Monday, February 14, at the Lord & Stephens Funeral Home East Chapel, with Dr. Sheila Bookout officiating. Interment will be held in 10 a.m. Wednesday, February 16, at Sharon Cemetery in Middleburg, Va. Lord & Stephens Funeral Home East, Athens, has charge of arrangements.