Melvin Barrett Baskfield, Jr. Obituary (1947 - 2026)

Melvin B. Baskfield, Jr., (Bobby) was born on September 17, 1947 in Fluvanna County. He was the son of the late Melvin B. Baskfield, Sr. and Pauline S. Baskfield. Melvin departed this life at his home on February 18, 2026. He became a member of Columbia Baptist Church at an early age. He later became a member of Union Baptist Church of Shores, VA where he was a choir member and served in other capacities in the church. His singing did not stop there. He was a member of the D.H.L. Men’s Chorus at the Chestnut Grove Baptist Church in Esmont, VA. Melvin’s favorite song was “Farther Along”. Melvin was a graduate of S.C. Abrams High School and attended Virginia Union University. He was employed by AT&T for many years until he retired. He also worked for the Charlottesville Housing Authority where he again retired. Melvin had a passion for riding his motorcycle. His travels were not just a journey but a soulful connection with the road. Riding his motorcycle was one of his greatest joys. Although there were twists and turns in the road, Melvin found freedom. Every ride was a chance for him to rediscover himself. The road may have been long, but every mile brought him closer to the treasures that lie beyond the horizon. Melvin was a beloved member of the Sundowner’s Motorcycle Club where he served as Road Captain and took great pride and truly loved his club brothers. He also had a passion for building hotrods. He would spend hours in his garage taking old parts, putting them together to make a beautiful automobile. In fact, one of his vehicles he built was featured in a hotrod magazine. Melvin would say to his family and friends: Don’t cry for me. I still ride free with the wind upon my face, leather in black, the sun on my back, a priceless gift from Heaven’s grace. To the Baskfield family, we at D. D. Watson offer our most sincere sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow. It is during such times as these that we draw upon our faith, stand upon our scriptures, and rely upon our God. There is no question that in this and through this, God will keep you, comfort you, and sustain you. You and your family are forever in our prayers.