DOVER - Fred Riley Melvin, "Birddog", of Dover, passed away peacefully in his home Sunday, May 8, 2011. Riley was born on April 5, 1942, to the late F. Nelson and Margaret A. Melvin of Harrington. He married Joyce Hayes on April 5, 1960. Riley was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Riley worked at Kraft Foods for over 35 years. He was also an avid commercial crabber and fisherman. He always enjoyed being on the water. After retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Doris Morris; and his daughter, Debra Marie Melvin. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Joyce F. Melvin of Dover; his sister, Jane Burgess and her husband Keith of Harrington; his four surviving daughters, Diana Wright of Harrington, Donna Zelano and her husband Ray of Houston, Dawn Fridas of Frederica, Darla Koff and her husband John of Frederica; seven grandchildren, Laurie Judd and her husband Sal of Milford, Brandy Wright of Harrington, Melissa and Kevin Koff of Frederica, Natalie Zelano of Houston, Stephanie and Sophia Fridas of Frederica; and two great-grandchildren, Alaina and William Judd of Milford. Services will be private. Arrangements by Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Dover.