Melvin M. Easley, Sr.

MELVIN “MEL” MAURICE EASLEY SR., affectionately known as “Moe,” was born on February 12, 1945, the fourth child born to the late Samuel and Vivian Easley. In the early morning hours of November 22, 2025, Melvin was called home to be with his Lord and Savior. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Melvin Maurice Easley, Jr. and his dear brother, John Garrett Easley. Melvin was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Mary Epps in Cherry Hill, with whom he shared a close bond. She instilled in him strong values, wisdom, and life lessons that he would later pass on faithfully to his own family. Melvin attended First Apostolic Faith Church, where he was baptized under the leadership of Pastor Winfield Showell. He later received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost at Refuge Way of the Cross Church of Christ in Baltimore, under the pastoral leadership of Apostle Leroy H. Cannady, Sr. Melvin was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System and attended Southern High School, where he excelled academically, particularly in mathematics and science. Demonstrating early discipline and ambition, he graduated ahead of schedule and proudly enlisted in the United States Army, where he served his country with honor and distinction. Following basic training, Melvin was stationed in Hawaii with the 25th Infantry Division, 5th Mechanized Unit, famously known as the “Bobcats.” This elite mechanized unit played a strategic role in operations near the Michelin Rubber Plantation. He was later deployed to Vietnam, serving with the 125th Infantry, known as “Tropic Lightning.” During his time there, the unit conducted combat sweeps, jungle patrols, ambush operations, and the destruction of enemy tunnel systems in high-risk areas. Melvin completed his tour of duty at Fort Bragg as a proud member of the renowned 82nd Airborne Division, He was a paratrooper and a sharpshooter, concluding a military career marked by courage, discipline, and unwavering service to his country. While serving in the military, Melvin married, Delphine Cannady Easley, in 1964. From this union, four children were born: Melvin Maurice, Jr. (preceded in death), Ericka Vershell, Ezra Martin, Sr., and Monaye Dorcia. His role as a father was one, he carried with deep pride. Melvin was a hardworking and dedicated man whose work ethic was evident throughout his life.

Tributes

Melvin M. Easley, Sr.

February 12, 1945 - November 22, 2025