Melvin C. Washington

Melvin Curtiss Washington, age 77, of Connellsville,  passed away on Feb. 7, 2026, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pa., surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Sept. 15, 1948, in Connellsville, Pa., the son of the late Howard E. Washington and Kathleen Robinson Washington.

Melvin began working on local farms near “Trotter” at a young age. A talented athlete, he graduated from Connellsville Area High School (formerly known as the Dunbar Mules) in 1967. He went on to play football at Salem College in West Virginia where he earned First Team All-Conference and All-American honors, and was later inducted into the Salem Hall of Fame, Class of 2017.

Melvin always held dear to his heart his football teammates from 1969. He was a devoted father and grandfather, and a longtime member of the United Baptist Church in Connellsville. Melvin worked for Anchor Hocking, now Crown, Cork & Seal, until his retirement. He was a proud member of American Legion Post 762.

Melvin enjoyed art, hunting, golfing, cooking, and spending time on his porch talking with neighbors. His love for family and friends was evident in every part of his life.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Raecyne Bechtold, Melvin Curtiss (Kristi) Washington Jr., Monica (Dr. Antony) Valentine, Corbin Washington, and Candra (James) Jones; his sisters: Claudette (Simeon) Hatcher and Paulette (Barry White) Reed; his former spouse, Valarie Reynolds Washington; 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents and his favorite cousins: Marlon, Dennis, and Victor Sykes.

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