Deacon Melvin Woodruff, son of the late Milton and Mazie Woodruff was born on November 17, 1937 in Spencer, Virginia.  He was preceded in death by his wife Norma Mae Woodruff.

He professed his faith in Jesus Christ as a member of the Union Chapel Baptist Church.  He served as the Choir Director, Sunday School Assistant Superintendent, Teacher and Chairman of the Deacon Board for many years.  He graduated from Atkins High School and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.  He worked for the Winston-Salem Housing Authority until his injury caused his retirement.

Due to his generous spirit and pleasant personality, he was loved by many, and his influence will forever live in our hearts.  For his input cleared the vision and opened the hearts of many.

He quietly departed this life on Sunday, June 20, 2021 at Universal Health Care in King, NC.  He leaves behind two sons, Rev. Anthony Woodruff and Melvin Eugene Woodruff; three brothers, Charles Woodruff (Sue), Robert Woodruff, and Kenneth Woodruff (Cynthia); three sisters, Mildred Strange (Calvin), Sylvia Woodruff and Arnetta Hauser (Waldo); three grandsons, Rev. Devane Woodruff (Shayla), Dominique Woodruff and Daniel Woodruff; three great grandsons, Anthony Harrell, Antwon Woodruff, Andre' Woodruff; loving daughters, Phyllis Woodruff and Glenda Wilson; and a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 6:00pm Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at Russell Funeral Home.

Private funeral services will be held Thursday, June 24, 2021. Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens.