LEWISTON – James P. Melvin Sr., 72, of Mechanic Falls, died Thursday, Sept. 18, at Central Maine Medical Center.

He was born in Rockland, on May 12, 1936, the son of Winfield Scott and Marion Oxton Melvin. He graduated from Portland High School, Class of 1954. He faithfully served his country in the U.S. Army.

He was employed at U.S. Gypsum from 1958 to 1966. In 1966, he went to work at the Maine Youth Center, becoming supervisor of staff, retiring in 1995. He was an avid photographer and loved the Red Sox and the Patriots. He enjoyed cooking, fishing, video games and computers.

He was second vice commander and chairman of the House Committee at the American Legion Post 150 in Mechanic Falls. His family wishes to thank CMMC ICU nurses and Dr. Duval.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Lillian Purington of Mechanic Falls; his daughter, Susan Fecteau and her husband, Gene, of Windham; stepchildren William Pray and his wife, Naomi, of Mechanic Falls, James B. Pray and his wife, Suzanne, of Greene, David Pray and his wife, Sharon, of Springvale and Patrice Loughran of Springvale; 11 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Bernice Skolfield of Cape Elizabeth and Roberta Melvin of Ft. Pierce, Fla.

He was predeceased by a son, James P. “Jay” Melvin Jr.; a stepson, Leslie A. Pray; and two brothers, Winfield and Donald.