Melvin L. Holmes

January 25, 1940 ~ March 2, 2024 (age 84)

Melvin Leo Holmes was a positive role model and mentor to all who knew him. He was born on January 25, 1940, in Louisville, Mississippi. He was a man characterized by his unwavering faith and an undying love for his family. Melvin's journey of life came to a peaceful close on March 2, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire many. Psalm 16:11 says, "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."

Melvin was not just a man of words, but of action. He was a graduate of Central High School in South Bend, IN, Manchester University and Western Michigan University. His professional career began at International Harvester, Fort Wayne, IN, Housing Authority, Kalamazoo, MI, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, and Associates Corp, South Bend, IN. He retired from AM General, South Bend, IN after over 30 years of service. His dedication extended beyond his professional life, serving as a board member at Manchester University, the Youth Service Bureau, the St. Joe County Public Library, and various positions at the Martin Luther King Jr. Senior Men's Club. 

Melvin’s 60 years of matrimony to Sheila began on his birthday in January 25,1964 - a day that marked not just his birth but the beginning of their lifelong journey together. Their union was blessed with three wonderful children, Michael (Renee), Westport, CT, Michelle, Indianapolis, IN and Angela, South Bend, IN. His love extended to his grandchildren, Nicole and Justin, Westport, CT who were his pride and joy. Melvin is also survived by his loving sister, Annie Joy Holmes, Chicago, IL and Nephew, Milton Holmes, Chicago, IL. Cousins: Jill Heggs, Marie Amison, Michael Ashford, Christine Swanson, Denise Thurman, Jerry Holmes and Audrey Ann Holmes and Aunt - Agnes Ashford, in addition to a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Carzenia Holmes.

Visitation will be held for Melvin on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 10 am EST followed by A Celebration of Life Service at the Greater St John Missionary Baptist Church, at 11:00am EST located at 101 North Adams Street, South Bend, Indiana, 46628. As we gather to celebrate Melvin's life, we will remember a man of strong faith, unwavering commitment, and immense love. We encourage friends and family to share their memories and upload photos of Melvin to his memorial page, as we remember and celebrate the life of this extraordinary man.

In lieu of flowers Donations can be made to the Center for Hospice Care via https://foundationforhospice.org or Pet Refuge via https://www.petrefuge.com/donate.

03/18/2024 EJS