Melvin Leroy Richardson

Melvin Leroy Richardson was born to Dr. Henry & Mrs. Thelma Marie Walton-Richardson on July 5, 1949, in Nashville, TN. Melvin, a beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed awayFebruary 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith. He was deeply cherished by his family, friends, and all privileged to know him.

A proud 1967 graduate of Cameron High School, Melvin went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Tennessee State University in 1974. While at TSU, he was an active student leader, serving on the Social Committee and as Medical Technology Class Chairman. His passions extended beyond academics, as he enjoyed photography, basketball, skating, volleyball, and bowling. He later pursued further education at Meharry Medical College School of Medical Technology graduating in 1975.

Faith played a central role in his life. Raised in the Adventist church, he was a member of the Ebony Ensemble Choir, using his voice to uplift others. His journey led him to the Mississippi Delta, where he worked in a laboratory under the mentorship of Mr. Alvin Bass in Mound Bayou, MS. From 1983 to 1990, he served as a Medical Technologist at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). During this time, he attended New Heights Seventh-Day Adventist Church and frequently visited Berean Seventh-Day Adventist Church, where he partnered with Mr. Henry Moore in prison ministry, spreading the gospel to those in need.

After ensuring his children had a strong spiritual foundation, Melvin returned to Nashville, TN, where he rejoined Hillcrest Seventh-Day Adventist Church. He was a dedicated and active member, serving faithfully as an Elder in the church. His commitment to service extended beyond the church, as he worked tirelessly in the Homeless Ministry, providing support to those in need.

Alongside his medical career, Melvin obtained a real estate license and pursued several ventures, including developing halfway homes to assist newly released inmates in rebuilding their lives. He also worked in various roles, including positions with the Red Cross and Summit Hospital as a CNA, always dedicated to serving others. Melvin also served as the Vice President of Focus on Natural Health Education & Community Development Inc. and Vice President of 3abn Radio station WFNH 95.1 FM in Jackson Mississippi for several years.

In 2022, Melvin returned to Mississippi, where he lived with his daughter and continued to enjoy time with his family. He frequently traveled to Dallas, TX, where he spent cherished moments with his son, grandchildren, and loved ones.

Melvin’s life was a testament to faith, resilience, and compassion. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to helping others will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Melvin was proceeded in death by his parents Dr. Henry D. and Thelma Marie Walton-Richardson, two brothers Henry and Moses Richardson, two nieces Anjanette and Nedra Richardson.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories, two children Karmon Richardson - Austin and Michael Richardson (Madison), two step-children Tiffany Lacy, and Derrick Lacy (Annie), three grandchildren Raegen, and Kolin Richardson, Kyera Norton, two brothers Harold Richardson Sr. and Neal Richardson, close nieces and nephews including Tellis , Darione Richardson , Harold Richardson Jr. (Ariel Richardson, Kennedi Richardson, Harold Richardson III), Dari Dennis, Demi Dennis, Austin Reese, and a host of many more relatives and friends.