Melvin was born in Thayer, Missouri February 23, 1926. He worked on a few farms and until he was drafted into the United States Army. Melvin received the victory medal,World War II, and was honorably discharged in 1948. Melvin married Treva Mae on March 15, 1945. They had five daughters and one son together, they later divorced and he married Ruby Jewel in 1983. He is preceded in death by his ex-wifes: Triva and Juanita; siblings: Irene, Edith, Lanora, Essie, Lee, Dayle, Elmos, Eulus, Arthor, Ralph and daughter Mickey. Melvin is survived by his children: Ruthanne, Triva Jean (Jenny), Bonnie, Debbie, Danny and Kenneth (Bindy); twelve grandchildren; one great grandchildren; siblings: Marvin, Betty, Mildred and ex-wife Ruby Jewel.