Mr. Melvin "Cherokee" Bobby Joe Massingale, 88, of Prosperity, SC, died on Monday July 31, 2023, at Newberry County Memorial Hospital. Born on April 15, 1935, he was the son of Mrs. Odessa Melinda Haney Massingale and the late Mr. William Daniel Massingale.

He was married in 1954, to his loving wife, Virginia "Joann" Turner Massingale. In addition to his mother and his wife, he is survived by his children: Steve Massingale (Becky), Rebecca Smith (Davey), Mike Massingale, Barbara Derrick (John), and Bobby Lynn Massingale (Marcia), 13 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. He is also survived by his sister, Ann Hatley (Larry) and brother, Victor Massingale.

Affectionately known as "Cherokee" to those who knew him, he was the proud owner of Massingale Trucking until his retirement in 2000. He never met a stranger and was gifted as a listener and known to be a hard worker. He loved his family dearly and was a good provider to them. He enjoyed camping and many family trips throughout the years. He was especially fond of Southern Gospel music concerts, as well as his other hobbies: fishing and hunting.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday August 4, 2023, at Glory Tabernacle Church, 905 Pope Street, Newberry, SC. Pastor Joel Mundy will be officiating the service.

Interment will follow at Newberry Memorial Gardens, 15127 C.R. Koon Highway, Newberry, SC 29108.

Memorial donations may be made to Glory Tabernacle Church.

Memories and condolences may be shared with family here on the tribute page.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to assist the Massingale family.