"I know the plans I have in mind for you, declares the LORD; they are plans for peace, not disaster, to give you a future filled with hope". Jeremiah 29:11.

Melvin Walker, Sr. – a devoted father, husband, brother, uncle, cousin, mentor, and friend – departed this life and leaped into God's loving arms on Thursday, June 18, 2020 at the age of 63.

Melvin was born on a Sunday (September 30, 1956).  He was the blessed offspring of the Eddie Lestrick, Jr. (deceased) and Elizabeth C. J. Walker (deceased).  Melvin arrived as the fifth son within eleven siblings.  Born in New Orleans, he ultimately became a longtime resident of Southern California.  Melvin Walker, Sr. was a career soldier in the U.S. Army and eventually retired at the rank of Master Sergeant after 23 years of honorable service. While in the military, he was stationed in the U.S. and abroad as an infantryman.  Melvin's notable career achievements include achieving the distinction of serving as a Drill Instructor; being a member of an elite guard detachment in Berlin during the Cold War; and serving as the senior enlisted instructor of Reserve Officer Training Course (ROTC) departments at the University of Southern California (USC), California State University at Long Beach (CSULB), and the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA).

Melvin Walker, Sr. believed in the power of education and role modeling.  He earned a bachelor's degree at Chapman University (Orange, CA).  Later, he earned a master's degree at USC. Melvin was the senior manager of USC's Transportation Services Department for over nine years. While there, Melvin's main duties involved overseeing general parking for a myriad of events (e.g., collegiate athletics contests, the Academy Awards, and numerous of award ceremonies). Following his time at USC, Melvin returned to the public sector as the chief logistics officer for ROTC programs at USC and CSULB.

Melvin's final career stint was serving as the senior Junior ROTC instructor at Palo Verde High School in Blythe, CA.  Under his tutelage, the program was designated as an Honor Unit with Distinction for 10 years.  Furthermore, Melvin mentored several cadets who later elected to serve in the U.S. military.  The positive influence he exuded over countless young people is immeasurable.

Melvin was married to his wife, Brenda, for over 30 years. Together, they raised three wonderful children (i.e., Melvin Jr., Jamal, and Jazmine).   A family man to his core, Melvin adored his wife and kids.  Furthermore, he deeply loved his immediate and extended families.  Melvin possessed a spiritual gift for serving people.  He loved hosting guests, cooking for others, and maintaining a clean and loving home for his family.  Melvin will always be remembered as a well-groomed man, who was a passionate USC Trojans and New Orleans Saints football fan!  He also had a razor-sharp memory and could sing every lyric to some of the best R&B, soul, and funk music within the 50s, 60s, and 70s!

Melvin Walker, Sr. is preceded in death by his loving parents and three brothers (George, Ernest, and Eddie).  He was also preceded in death by his in-laws (Larry & Donna Eudaly) and brothers-in-law (Darrell and Johnny).  Melvin leaves his wife, children, and remaining siblings (Virginia; Albert (Dannette) of Houston, TX; Brenda (Leonard); Glenda (Kalton); Celestine; Eric (Faynette), Evalina; Pat; Lynell (Lance); and Lionel ) to grieve his passing.  He is also survived by his brother-in-law Larry (Sue) of Lecando, FL and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and beloved friends. He will be forever missed by his best friend of over 40 years, Tony Harper of Newport News, Virginia.

Melvin touched numerous lives with his compassion, energetic spirit, and contagious laughter. He will always be loved, remembered, and greatly missed by all who knew him.

"Savoir-Faire….is everywhere!"

Please note that certain restrictions still apply at all places where services are held and face masks are required.