Melvin Givens

Bishop M. A. Givens (Pastor Mel) Bishop M. A. Givens (Pastor Mel) passed away suddenly on Tuesday, March 16, 2010. He was born August 10, 1932 in Midland, Texas to Reverend and Mrs. M. A. Givens. The second of 13 children, he was raised in Midland but completed his high school education in Las Vegas. He received his Doctorate of Divinity from the Theological Seminary at the University of Oregon. In 1945 he was called into the ministry, and ordained to Bishopric of the Church of God in Christ (1966). For the past 41 years, Bishop Givens pastored locally in Salt Lake City at Deliverance Temple C.O.G.I.C. and GNCC. His work extended beyond the church into the community, where he was widely loved. In 1951, he married Alma Stowers and to that union were born four sons: Melvin A III (Anita), Don R. (Wenda), Clyde C. (Donna). and Victor L. Givens (deceased). In 1960, he married Doris Vanzandt, his life long partner. To that union were born four children: Charles M (Jan), Jacquenetta L, Stephen D. (JoAn) Givens, and Dionne (Adam) Watson. Pastor Mel is survived by his loving wife Doris, seven children, 23 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and nine siblings. Preceded in death by his parents, three siblings, and son Victor. Funeral services will held on Tuesday, March 23 at 11 a.m. at the World Wide Gospel Church (862 W. 300 N.) in Salt Lake City. Friends and family may call Monday, March 22 from 6-8 p.m. at the McDougal Mortuary (4330 S. Redwood Road). Interment: Redwood Memorial Mortuary & Cemetery.