T. Stephen Melvin Obituary (2021)

T. Stephen Melvin, age 83, of Callawassie Island, S.C., died June 12, 2021. A native Floridian, Steve moved north in 1960 to join G.E. on a 3 year management training program after receiving his engineering degree with honor from the University of Florida. Although later licensed as a Professional Engineer, his entire career was in management of manufacturing companies in the USA, Canada and Europe, primarily with G.E., United Technologies, Smith & Wesson and Datron, progressing to President and CEO. Products manufactured for aerospace, industrial and commercial markets ranged from transistors and batteries to large process compressors, military and commercial jet engines, air plane arresting gear, and handguns. In 1980 he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Sauls Melvin. Together they have 5 children (Suzanne, Beth, Mark, Bob, and Caroline) from previous marriages, 12 grandchildren (Carl, Chris, Zach, Jake, Erin, Jessica, Sarah, Jamie, Matthew, Lauren, Carly, Thomas) and 3 great grandchildren (Madden, Eric and Caleb). He is also survived by brother Michael, nephew Alex and niece Lauren. Steve retired in 1999 and built a home in 2000 designed by Beverly, on a wooded marsh lot on Callawassie Island. He played golf, boated, traveled, tended his extensive antique Zenith radio collection, read, and participated in various club committees and its Board of Directors. He was also a member of SAR (Sons of the American Revolution). Though a cradle Episcopalian, he did not truly come to Christ until the Spirit filled life of the Parish Church of St. Helena led to a deep change. He became a member of the Vestry, later serving as Warden for 5 years. He strongly believed in and supported Holy Trinity Classical Christian School from its inception and was a member of its Board of Governors. He supported missions and helped establish The Treasure House, a resale shop and prayer room. The funeral will be at 11 am. Friday, June 18, 2021 at the Parish of St. Helena, Beaufort, SC. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Holy Trinity Classical Christian School, 302 Burroughs Avenue, Beaufort, SC 29902.