Melvin "Mel" Hancock

Melvin Chris Hancock, son of Hollis Melvin Hancock & Evelyn Jo McBride Hancock passed into eternal rest at his home in Pima, AZ on July 12, 2024 at the age of 72.

"Mel" grew up on the family farm in Coontown, just below the Indian Hot Springs, enjoying farming with his dad and younger brother, Mac.  As a result of his hard work, he could operate any type of machinery and knew the value of hard work.

He got his CDL license and drove trucks and worked different jobs, finally settling at Phelps Dodge later known as Freeport.  He was considered such a good dozer hand that they called him back to the mine after he had retire.  He worked another year or so until he finally said "that's enough!"

He loved his brother Mac and was always asking about him or going to visit him as much as possible.  Mel was fun to be around, always positive and had great comebacks.  He was generous to a fault, always helping someone in need.  Mel married and divorced twice, neither producing children.

He loved Christmas and delivering gifts, it brought him much joy!  He loved to talk to little kids and they loved him.  He was also a very private person and lived his life as such.  He said that if he could have farmed all his life that would be the happiest thing he could do.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.  "Forever in our hearts"

He is survived by his brother Mac (Vicki) Hancock, his sister Kay (Jack) Carter and four other siblings.  He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who dearly loved their Uncle Mel.

A private graveside memorial is planned for a later time.

Arrangements are under the direction of McDougal's Caldwell Funeral Chapel located at 112 E Main Street, Safford, Arizona.   928-428-1740