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. After completing his military service, he built a deep and varied career, ranging from an educator to working with Department of Maryland Transit Administration. However, his true passion was found in construction and infrastructure development. He took great pride in helping to build and design major projects throughout the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. During this time, he worked alongside his father on the development of the Washington, D.C. metro system, and later played a role in the construction of the Baltimore City Metro System – a legacy that will stand for generations. During this season of his life, Melvin met, courted and married Fernetta Crockett Easley, and from this loving union two children were born: Fernetta and Tawanda. He was a devoted and loving husband and a proud, committed father to all of his children. Melvin was a constant source of strength, guidance, and encouragement to both his immediate and extended family. He took immense pride in his children and grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to proudly speak of their accomplishments. Melvin also took great joy in sharing stories and pointing out the many sites and projects he helped to build. Later in life, he became an entrepreneur, founding Easley Enterprises, a home improvement business through which he helped restore, repair and beautify homes for countless families. His love for education and mentorship, led him to the North American Trade Center, where he served for 14 years as a Building Trades Educator and Department Supervisor. Through this role, he profoundly impacted the lives of his students and continued to mentor many even after his retirement. Melvin was a true music enthusiast who found great joy in the sounds of gospel, blues, jazz, and classic R&B oldies. He took great pride in having an exceptional sound system, and his music always played with remarkable clarity and richness throughout his home. He also loved hosting barbecues, creating spaces filled with laughter, good food, and togetherness. A man who embraced both tradition and technology, Melvin also had a special love for his computer, always eager to learn, explore, and stay connected. Melvin leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, strength, and love. His wisdom, laughter, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to those he loved will forever be remembered. Though he has answered the call to eternal rest, the impact of his life will continue to live on through generations. He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted and loving wife, Fernetta Easley; cherished children, Ericka Easley, Ezra Easley (Kristin), Monaye Easley-Smalls, Fernetta Easley, and Tawanda Easley; his beloved daughter-in-love, Dornee Easley; cherished grandchildren (14), Ashlee Ridley’(Donta), Melvin Easley, III (Dez), Marcus Easley (Mia), Ayanna Wright, Malachi Easley, Lamont Thompson (Breonna), Shamar Smalls, Taylor Easley, Alexis Easley, Samuel Smalls (Ashley), Aryn Easley, Monyaé Easley, Ezra Easley Jr, and Paris Easley; great-grands (15), Sanaa, Zoey, Seth, Kasen, Genesis, Noah, Judah, Levi, Khalil,Khamari, Dasia, Julia, Omari, Zara and Samaria; great-great grandchild, Ashton; three sisters, Beatrice, Carolyn (Tyrone), and Mary; two brothers, Samuel and Marvin (Jackie); brothers-in-law, Iszard and Ronald (Roberta); sister-in-law, Deborah; great-aunt, Ethel; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended relatives, and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts..

Tributes

Melvin M. Easley, Sr.

February 12, 1945 - November 22, 2025