The Rev. John 'Pud' Melvin Hancock, formerly of Harrisburg

The Rev. John "Pud" Melvin Hancock, age 95, of San Tan Valley, Arizona, formerly of Harrisburg, passed away at 3:30 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2019.

Rev. Hancock was born on March 9, 1924, in Ledford to the late Raymond and Mabel (Noel) Hancock. On June 24, 1945 he married Lorene Lucille Reynolds and she preceded him in death on April 28, 2015.

Rev. Hancock served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a prisoner of war from Nov. 24, 1944 until March 27, 1945. He was a member of the National League of POW/MIA Families, Illinois POWs, AMVETS, Harrisburg American Legion and the Carrier Mills Senior Citizens Club, where he served as vice-president. He was a member of Spring Valley Church and pastored several local churches. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Rev. Hancock is survived by two sons, Roger Dale Hancock of Russellville, Alabama and John David (Rondi) Hancock of San Tan Valley, Arizona; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

In addition to his wife and parents, Rev. Hancock was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Brenda Hancock; brother, James D. Hancock; sister, Ruby Selberg; and sisters Louise Kimmell and Pauline Duncan.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 30, 2019 at Spring Valley Church. The Rev. Jerry Wells and the Rev. Travis Butler will officiate. Burial will follow in Spring Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019 at Reed Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Spring Valley Church; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Condolences may be left for the family at www.reedfuneralchapel.com.