Melvin A. ‘Mel’ Samms-Overley

September 10, 1951-August 25, 2024

Melvin A. ‘Mel’ Samms-Overley, 72, Altoona, passed away Sunday afternoon at UPMC Altoona. He was born in Seattle, Washington, the son of the late Alfred L. and Pauline (Brons) Overley.

Mel married Dorothy F. ‘Bonnie’ Samms on January 19, 1991.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years; a son, Michael Hite of Altoona; two grandchildren: Joshua and Aaron; a brother, Alfred Overley of CA; two sisters: Candy Overley of Phoenix, AZ and Teresa Overley of Reno, NV; also, his nephew, Zachary.

Mel was a high school graduate and had retired from the maintenance department of the Altoona Area Public Library. He had previously been a truck driver and flooring installer.

Mel was a member of the Baháʼí Faith and served the faith in many capacities including Chairman of the Baháʼí community in Altoona.

He enjoyed writing poetry, was an avid reader and liked frog collectibles. Mel enjoyed interacting with a variety of people and was well liked by all.

Friends will be received from 3-5 pm on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602. A funeral service will immediately follow at 5 pm in the Stevens Memorial Chapel. Interment will be held at SS Peter & Paul Cemetery.

The family requests, contributions be made in Mel’s memory, to: The Altoona Area Public Library, 1600 5th Ave., Altoona, PA 16602.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.