Love Notes to George
original portrait by Mike Uriss
George!!! you know how much I love your persona and your music, but you probably don't know how much I and many of us want you to come back to your health not because we want to listen to your music and play or not because we want you to help us, but because of human being you are. I trust your strength and ability to turn things around and stand strong on your feet spiritually, emotionally and mentally and physically
We are standing here behind you for your support, and we trust you that you will give to yourself thousand times more support, because you need it. it's your time
Always
Irma 11/12/09
Dear Mr. Melvin,
My family and I have so many happy memories in our transition to C'ville which have been so greatly enriched by you and your enchanting music both at Keswick and South Street! Your warmth and gracious conversation with fans have become legendary and we feel blessed to have enjoyed your God-given talent on many occasions. We pray for the return of good health to one of God's chosen! Many thanks! Dale and John Carr
Dear George,
I am sorry that I had to miss your concert. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I admire you and value our friendship. You are a dear person and is always willing to lend a hand. I miss seeing you at the Boar's Head Inn. Let me know if I can help you in anyway. God bless!!!!
Your friend always, Courtney
Dear George, I just bought my plane ticket and I sure hope I'll be seeing you swingin' on Saturday night! Love ya much, Lydia Conder Vann
G -
When I sat down to post this, I thought... what words do I use? Sometimes words are so inept. There has always been a feeling between us that didn't need words, like when neither of us knew exactly how we would end a song, but it always turned out right!
Well, this song ain't over yet, and I've got a feeling that it's going to continue on on an upbeat note, and turn out right!
OK gang, let's kick it up a notch for "THE MAN"!!
Posted with Love to my Brother man,
Bud
Hi George,
It's been a long time since we have crossed paths. You stood up for me years ago when injustice crossed my path. Now it is my turn to stand up for you. You are a remarkble human being and I look forward to seeing you the next time I am in C'ville. I still have your cd and listen to it often - there is a big place in my heart for you. God bless you and your family. Hope the benefit is a great success - no doubt it will be.
Best Regards,
Carol Ziegler
Orlando, FL
Dear Mr. Melvin,
Your music has been an inspiration to many over the years. We last had this pleasure of your company in Oct. 2007 when you were playing at Keswick. It was my husband's birthday and you made the evening complete by playing Unforgettable our "love song." That was a beautiful night and one that will last a lifetime. Since then he has gone to heaven but I will have those memories forever.
I have two of your CD's and they keep me company on a regular basis. I'm truly sorry for the distress you are having to go through but know that your family and friends are here for you.
Please take care of yourself and know you are in my prayers always. Thank you for all the joy you have brought into our lives over the years. It is much appreciated and needed.
Warmly,
B.G. Huber
WELL HELLO THERE MR. MELVIN
A SINGING VOICE FROM THE PAST. IT'S DELEESA CARR. COME HERE TO YOUR SITE TO SEND UP A MIILION PRAYERS FOR YOU
AND TO SUPPORT YOU FINANCIALLY. WANT BE HOME FOR ANOTHER MONTH. ALL THOSE GOOD TIMES WE HAD AT A PLACE OFF OF
ODDS FELLOWS ROAD IN LNYCHBURG VIRGINIA. REMEBER YOU GAVE ME THE SHEET MUSIC TO MOON RIVER IN WHICH I STILL HAVE.
YES FROM ONE MUSICIAN TO ANOTHER WE WILL RALLY AROUND YOU AS WILL GOD. MY YOU COULD PLAY SOME ORGAN. WHEN EVER I NEEDED BACK UP TO A SONG YOU WERE ALWAYS AT THE KEY BOARD. NOW IT'S TIME FOR US TO BE THERE FORE YOU. KEEP SEND UP THOSE PRAYERS TO GOD AND I'LL BE DOING THE SAME FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. BE BLESSED. LOVE YOU MUCH AND GOD DO TOO.
George,
I'm sorry I never got a chance to play with you, but I sure enjoyed hearing you over the years. I also enjoyed our many conversations here at Charlottesville Music. You are the man!
Billy
Dear George: The man of musical magic. The man of mystical moments. The juicin' jazz jute box. May all your prayers be answered and may your body, mind, and soul know complete and vibrant health and wellness. Blessings.. Mala
Dear George & Alfreda,
Wishing you Bright Moments & Much Love from your Richmond Jazz Society family!
From: B. J., Payne, Jim, and the other 400+ folks who love you dearly!
Greetings George, I wish I was made aware of this Benefit earlier. I just got wind of it a week before the date. I would certainly would've been present, but unfortunately ,I won't be able to attend attend. However,my prayers are with you and please keep in abreast of your health . I know that you've got the music part covered,my man.."Groove would be proud"! Take care,Walter Bell
George, Your exceptional personality and genuine friendliness are always inspiring me in my daily jaunts around Cville. Your music and stage presence bring relaxed moments that I've enjoyed ever since you played during my 50th birthday dinner. Your CD's are always on my stereo. I will be there for you and look forward to seeing you. Thank you for your talents and for being you!
Buddy
Hey George, if every thing goes as planned I will be there on Nov, 7th -
see u then,
Bootsie
George,
Some of my best memories of Charlottesville include listening to your beautiful music, and your excellent words of wisdom! You are in my prayers for a speedy and full recovery!
Kathy
Hey Pop - you are in my prayers everyday & as I have told your granddaughter, even when you can't see me, our hearts are always together no matter
what, forever & ever. Your strength, faith in yourself & faith in God have brought you this far. You are forever my hero & I love & admire you beyond my ability to express either in words.
You are a remarkable human being & I absolutely love you with everything in me. Love & continued blessings to you and I will see you soon!
My Dear Friend,
I have had the honor of knowing you and your family for over 27 years. Your musical talent is a blessing from God. Your generosity toward me and my family members have been phenomenal. You are a blessing to the musical community and to your many friends. It has truly been a privilege to call you my Dear Friend. God holds you in the palm of His hand George. We love you and will be praying for you and holding you in our thoughts and prayers.
Gods many Blessings,
Sheila
George! I have simply loved playing with you for all these many years. Everything from South Street to your Christmas parties.They have all been a joy. You have been so supportive of me and I deeply appreciate it George. I can honestly say that I love you, and wonderful Alfreda as well. We will see you two at the at the Fundraiser and make a generous donation. Cheers, George and Alfreda. Love, Nick
George,
I can't thank you enough for welcoming me at South Street and for being an open and encouraging mentor to me in my fledgling attempts to get a handle on playing jazz.
Your perspectives on music and life are incredibly valuable to me, and I just hope that a fraction of your musical vision and generosity of spirit rubs off on me.
I look forward to more opportunities to play together, and I'm proud and privileged to call you friend.
Oh, and also, you are one bad cat!
Jaye
George, I remember my dad (aspiring pianist) raving about you years ago when he used to go out and see you! And you're an inspiration to me also!! I appreciate all the support you've shown me over the years. I wouldn't be where (both musically and personally) I am today without your influence! I hope to share the stage with you again soon!
Haywood
Dear George,
You continue to inspire me with your musical talent, personal warmth and inner strength. At a pivotal point in my life - when my wife (Elise) and I were just getting to know one another, you encouraged us to bring out the best in each other. It all came "full circle" when you performed at our engagement party, a performance we remember with great fondness.
Elise and I are privileged to call you our friend. Although we don't stay in touch with you as often as we would like, please know that we send you love and best wishes always.
Barry
George:
Thanks for all your generosity toward me, my associates and our projects in the past; thanks for the soulful, swinging music you've brought to so many people for decades; and most of all, thanks for being such an inspiring, light-filled being on Planet Earth.
Mike & Houston
Dear George,
Thank you from everyone at Swing C'ville for providing us with swingin' tunes at South Street every Monday. We love you!
Chelsea & the Gang

Dearest George,
So many fond memories of Johnny Gilmore, you and black bean soup at the Boar's Head Inn! I am keeping you and Alfreda in my thoughts, prayers and heart.
Jodie