Melvin Douglas Stancil

Melvin Douglas Stancil, 85, of Garner, North Carolina, passed away on August 23, 2026.

Melvin was born on November 13, 1940, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to Douglas Walter Stancil and Danzell Inez Davis. He proudly served in the United States Army before retiring from his career and settling into the life he knew best-doing things his way.

Melvin was, above all else, an ornery man. He was stubborn, strong-willed, and never one to shy away from telling you exactly what he thought-or exactly how he thought something should be done. He had definite opinions, and he was more than happy to share them. He loved to complain, loved to give instructions, and firmly believed that his way was usually the right way. He made more than a few enemies along the way, but he also left behind plenty of stories and memories that will continue to be told for years to come.

He is survived by his wife, Miranda Mae Benson; five of his seven children, Buster Stancil, Jerry Stancil, Debbie Stancil-Atwood, Linda Stancil, and Michael Stancil; two of his siblings, Frank Stancil, and Kathey Watkins and 13 of his 14 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two of his children, Patricia Allred, and Sammy Stancil; one of his siblings, Charles Stancil and one grandchild.

Though Melvin may not have been the easiest man to agree with, there was never much question about who he was. He lived life on his own terms, spoke his mind, and rarely apologized for either. His stubbornness, his complaints, his opinions, and his unmistakable personality were all part of what made him Melvin-and those who knew him will remember him for exactly that.

A visitation will be held at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Road, Garner, North Carolina, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the YMCA or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.