MOBILE, Ala. ( WKRG ) — The Gulf Coast said its final goodbyes to beloved News 5 Anchor Mel Showers Saturday morning.
Mel Showers’ funeral service was held at the Saenger Theater in downtown Mobile. Those in attendance shared tears and laughter as Mel’s life was celebrated.
“We stand on the shoulders of a giant man who has made an impact not only in Mobile but the entire country,” Democrat Representative, Barbara Drummond said.
Mel broke racial barriers becoming the first Black TV reporter in our area, during a time when Black journalists were not on air.
Once people got a taste of his on-air presence, the News 5 coverage area quickly learned to love him. There was still pushback, however, to which he responded with a kind smile.
“He would always say love overcomes hate,” co-anchor and friend, Rose Ann Haven said.
Mel was a proud husband, father and grandfather.
“I’m not going to say where he is, is better because we all want him here obviously,” granddaughter, Taylor Woodie said. “But he is reunited with his wife and daughter now and I think that’s the best place he can be.”