NEW HANOVER COUNTY — Andrew Shaw Melvin, Jr. age 85, of Porters Neck, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at his home. He was a man of many names Drew to friends, Butch to family, “Papa Drew” to younger friends, and most importantly, Dad. Born on April 3, 1940, in Gastonia, North Carolina, Drew was a truly special person who profoundly influenced the lives of many. He possessed a remarkable ability to turn friends into family, leaving an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Drew’s journey brought him to Chapel Hill in 1958, a pivotal moment where he met the love of his life, Harriet Horney. Their connection blossomed, and they were united in marriage in 1961, embarking on a cherished life together.
Drew dedicated many years to the University of North Carolina. He retired as the Director of Communications for UNC Hospital, a role he held with distinction from 1968 to 2000. Prior to this, he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1959 to 1963. His commitment to UNC extended beyond the hospital, as he also coordinated on-field communications for the for UNC football opponents from 1976 to 2007. He was a faithful servant of Saint Thomas Moore Catholic Church for many years. Known as a leader of youth, Drew treasured spending time with the youth groups of St. Thomas Moore and his time as a Girl Scout leader.
Drew was predeceased by his parents, Andrew Shaw Melvin and Annie Lee Kendrick Melvin. His beloved wife, Harriet Horney Melvin; her parents Giles Foushee Horney and Harriet Terwilliger Horney; and his sister Ann Melvin Schmeisser. He is survived by his loving children: Lillian Melvin Whichard and her husband John of Greenville, NC, and their children Baird, Ainsley, and Austin; Andrew Shaw Melvin, III of Hampstead, NC and his son Christopher (Michayla); and daughter by Choice, Traci Couts Bellas and her husband, Chris of Hampstead, NC and their children Tim (Cynthia) their daughter Ella, Matt Coveyou (Mary), and Kaitlyn Carmichael (Gavin). Drew was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Lucas and Ember.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care provided by many caregivers including special caregiver and friend, Brooke Carter. As well as, the team at Gentiva Hospice for their dedicated care and support during Drew’s final days.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, July 8 at St Thomas More Catholic Church in Chapel Hill; interment and reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Thomas More Church.
Drew’s warmth, generosity, and ability to forge deep connections will be dearly missed and forever remembered by his family and the countless friends he embraced as his own.
