In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. He destroyed the hearts of his wife (Kimberly English), his six children, his Meet Leslie Braddock, the Gay Lover of Todd Chrisley! Dr. Melvin G. Williams of Wilbraham died March 6, 2004 following complications from surgery. You will forever be in my heart, my only true love. But he first lived with his grandmother before moving in with his mother and stepfather in Detriot. Melvin Williams Obituary It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Melvin Williams of Macon, Georgia, who passed away on September 13, 2022, at the age of 63, leaving to mourn family and friends. At the time of his passing, Melvin Franklin, a well-known original bass singer, was thought to have a net worth of $1.5 million. Bio, Age, Wiki, Career, Height, Net Worth, Who is Madison Cawthorn? He was 73. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. Your love and loyalty was unmatched. WebThe grave site of Melvin Williams. Preceded in death by his parents and nine siblings. Visitation will be held in the Piscataway Funeral Home, 18SteltonRoad, Piscataway, NJ 08854, on Monday, March 7, 2022, from 5 PM 9 PM. View The Obituary For Melvin DUNKLIN of Warren, Ohio. Connect with the definitive source for global and local news. He was the son of the late Jerrie Franklin once boasted that the Temptations needed only ``a light, a microphone and a plain wood floor to captivate an crowd. Williams death was confirmed to The Baltimore Sun by the Wylie Funeral Home in Baltimore. Melvin was born on June 12th, 1956, in Fort Dix, NJ. I will cherish all of our good times and laugh at the bad times because none of that matters. Born and raised in Riceboro, Georgia, Melvin was an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War. The assailant wanted to take his vehicle. 2, 2020. Burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery. Franklins basso profundo was the heart of the Temptations, with much of the groups harmonizing overlaying his bass. Many people were interested in learning the answers to these questions, and we would do that in this essay. Only Otis Williams remains of the five young men who Motown once billed as ``the tall, tan and tempting Temptations.. Published by The Times-Picayune from Mar. January 20th 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Sterling-McCullough Williams Funeral Chapel (1153 Main Ave SW, Warren, OH 44483). He is also survived by relatives and friends. He started his solo music career in 1988, with the release of Back to the Cross by Compendia Music Group,[6] which charted at No. They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel. A funeral service will be held on Friday, After collapsing, he was brought to Cedars Sinai Medical Center. However, Kimberly became a widow after Melvins hazy passing from heart failure in 1995. He will give you strength and courage to cope with your grief. A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 20th 2023 at 11:00 AM at the same location. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 20th 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Sterling-McCullough Williams Funeral Chapel (1153 Main Ave SW, Warren, OH 44483). MELVIN O. WILLIAMS On Thursday, June 18, 2020 Melvin O. Williams entered into eternal rest. Love Noonie"; "Daddy I love you; I will always be your little soulja. There is no photo or video of Melvin Dunklin.Be the first to share a memory to pay tribute. Kendricks died in 1992 of lung cancer. Two years later, the group reformed as the Temptations with Franklin, Otis Williams, Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams and Eldridge Bryant. He is also survived by his mother, Marie Williams, two brothers, Dennis and Donnell Williams, one sister, Ann Judd and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Ruffin died in 1991 of a crack overdose. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? Bio, Age, Wiki, Career, Height, Net Worth, Jimmy Here: Net Worth, Bio, Age, Ethnicity, Height, Wiki, Relationship. LOS ANGELES (AP) _ Melvin Franklin, an original member of the Temptations whose deep voice anchored harmonies on such hits as ``The Way You Do the Things You Do and ``My Girl, died Thursday. The family will have a private memorial service at a later date. Other appearances include his cameo in Baltimore hip hop duo Dirt Platoon's video for the song "Pennsylvania Avenue" in 2010. Rev. Nicknamed Little Melvin, Williams once was a powerful force in the Baltimore drug trade in the 1970s and 1980s before he served years in a federal prison and turned away from crime. His second album, In Living Color LIVE, was released in 1992, with the backing of Blackberry Records releasing the project. The Tragic Death Of Melvin Franklin Of Temptations: How Did He Die? Professional services entrusted to BIANCHI FUNERAL SERVICE. Melvin Williams May 31, 1943 - December 25, 2022 Obituary You are forever in my heart. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, at 10 AM in St. Frances Cabrini RC Church, Piscataway. He is one part of The Williams Brothers, that was founded in 1960 by his father. Born and raised inRiceboro, Georgia, Melvin was an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War. Gone to Soon..Much Luv My Brother, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Ivy and the family. If you enter anything in this field your comment will be treated as spam: wow lil melvin I really didn't get to know u as much as I wanted to but I heard your music and u had a promising career rapping.its crazy then and know so we will always remember the good times we did share.love u brother!!!! Dr. Melvin G. Williams1937 - 2004 WILBRAHAM - Rev. Melvin A. Williams Death -Obituary Is Not Available: According to State Police, the officer, Melvin A. 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I love you forever and I am so glad we created two beautiful kids out of love. As US Music Ambassador for the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and Jazz at Lincoln Center's "The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad",[13] Melvin Williams tours internationally hosting Master Class at American Corners and performing concerts at various Performing Arts Theatres, Festivals, Music Conservatories,[14] such as, the Usadba Jazz Festival[15] in Moscow, Russia; the Baku Jazz Center[16][17] in Baku, Azerbaijan; the Turkmenistan Cinema and Concert Hall[18] in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan; the International Jazz Festival in Chelyabinsk,[19] Club 33 Amphitheatre in Tbilisi Vake Park[20] in Tbilisi, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Ms. Ruby Thomas and Ms. Pearlie Dunklin and one brother, McKinzie Dunklin, Jr. Funeral services will be held Friday, January 20, 2023 at 11:00 a.m., with calling hours from 10:00 11:00 a.m. at the Sterling-McCullough Williams Funeral Chapel. I promise to smile everyday just as you did. Following their debut, the groups name was changed to Temptations and they were enrolled. No man or nobody will ever take your place. May you be comforted in knowing that our Heavenly Father cares for you. Loving son of Gwendolyn Williams and 32. Continue to lean on and cherish one another during this difficult time and hold on to all those wonderful memories of your father. He always said "I thank God every day because without him I'm nothing!" May they remain strong as a family and find comfort and peace in our heavenly father. made it happen by performing successfully in the insurance He developed a liking for music while he was in Detroit and joined forces with pals to sing on the citys streets. Melvin attended Trinity Baptist Church and enjoyed recreational sports. Melvin (Bubba) Williams Jr. 92, of Bloomington, departed this life at 6:07 a.m., Saturday, (May 4, 2019) at St, Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington, IL. He was the devoted husband of Deborah Williams and loving father of Ivy Williams and Timothy McMillan. Although he fought his illness valiantly, Melvin Franklin passed away at the age of 53. Melvin Big Mel Williams, 44, of Wise, departed this life on Thursday, Dec. 3, at Maria Parham Health in Henderson. However, once he was shot, his situation got worse. We are loving up on each other as best we know how. He cared for his loved ones dearly, was always the first one on the dance floor, and wore a smile on hisface throughout life's storms. He was 73. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.leememorialparkfuneralhome.com for the Williams family. Label: Melvin Williams Entertainment, LLC / New Day Christian, Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance, Male, Grammy Award for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album, Grammy Award for Best Traditional Gospel Album, "THE WILLIAMS BROTHERS United States Trademark 74205266", "MCCOMB, Miss. [citation needed] In May 1987, the Internal Revenue Service assessed taxes in the amount of $425,055. He was predeceased by : his parents, Melvin Provo and Jewell Ruth Provitt Dunklin; and his siblings, Ruby Thomas, Pearlie Dunklin and McKinzie Dunklin Jr.. They were the only two original members still involved in Temptations concerts through the 90s. Melvin Franklin, Original Member of the Temptations, Dead at 52 JEFF WILSON February 23, 1995 LOS ANGELES (AP) _ Melvin Franklin, an original member Before you post, here are some answers to frequently asked questions: Remember, all posts are approved by a Times staffer. WebPiscataway Melvin B. Williams, 76, passed away Wednesday, March 2, 2022, in Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Rahway after a long and courageous battle with ALS. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. See more. In 1950's, the US State Department Ambassadors program began with American Jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman and Duke Ellington to foster a mutual understanding between the U.S. and other nations through American music and culture. Does rapper Money Man have a glass eye? [7] In 1998 Never Seen Your Face, was released by Blackberry Records on April 7, 1998,[6][8] and this would chart on the Gospel Albums chart at No. Melvin LeVarn Williams (born July 21, 1953) is an American gospel musician. You will forever be in my heart, my only true love. Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. David Ruffin replaced Bryant in 1964, and the group signed with Motown. [citation needed] He served part of his sentence in the Lewisburg Federal Penitentiary. Williams was born on July 21, 1953,[1] in Smithdale, Mississippi,[2] as Melvin LeVarn Williams,[3] the son of Leon "Pop" Williams (November 24, 1908/1909 September 6, 1989),[1][4] he died in a car accident,[4] and Amanda "Mom" Williams (B:1919 D:August 30, 2014),[5] she died at the age of 94. Masks are required. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. He survived until 1995 on carefully supervised drugs. He is survived by three Loving son of Gwendolyn Williams and Melvin G. Moore. Email addresses are not republished or used for marketing purposes. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. MELVIN WILLIAMS OBITUARY. "Easy Money: Anatomy of a Drug Empire", a series of five articles, was published in the Baltimore Sun in 1987. Melvin Leon Williams, son of the late Raymond and Dorothy Holland, was born on June 14, 1944, in Baltimore, Maryland. I know that you are safe in the arms of Jesus with no worry in the word. MELVIN WILLIAMS. His seventh album, The Best of Melvin Williams, was released in 2009. Please share a memory of Melvin to include in a keepsake book for family and friends. I will cherish all of our good times and laugh at the bad times because none of that matters. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. Why does the Homicide Report list killings by police. All of these albums, charted on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart. He was 63, a native of Belle Rose and a resident of Donaldsonville. WebMelvin Jerome Williams affectionately known as "Butch," the son of Melvin A. Williams and Elizabeth B. Williams was born on July 19, 1951, in Harlem, New York. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. union of Marion and Helen Williams. Melvin Williams, a former drug kingpin who helped inspire The Wire, died Thursday in Baltimore, the The Baltimore Sun reports. He was a member of the Scence Booster Club, an associate member of the Zulu Young Warriors and an employee of Southern Scrap Materials for many years. He is survived by : his son Aaron Dunklin of Columbus, OH; and his sister Louise Stroud of Warren. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? Please join us in Loving, Sharing and Memorializing Melvin DUNKLIN on this permanent online memorial. Why does the Homicide Report give the race of victims and suspects? Melvin Franklin, the perfect bass vocalist, was born David Melvin English on October 12, 1942, in Montgomery, Alabama, in the United States. Devoted father of Eden, Melvin Williams, Jr. and Step daughter Aryelle Williams. Brother of Michael Williams (Quontney Williams) and Shayla Williams. I've know you for over 20 years and will miss your humble gently spirit. There's still time to send flowers to Melvin Dunklin's service. ``I almost see us like a football franchise or a baseball franchise. Melvin was preceded in death by his big sister,Luebertha; son, Melvin Brown Williams Jr.; and daughter, Tammy Williams-Mckinnie. Love you daddy, Melvin Jr." From Shalece: "Melvin you were the only man that taught me how a man is supposed to provide and take care of his family. He began taking cortisone to support himself and his musical profession. 34. One of the Baltimore Police Department investigators working on the case was Ed Burns. Beloved fianc of Nakita Williams. He was dependent on cortisone to treat his ailment, but the drugs side effects made his health problems worse. He developed necrotizing fasciitis while still trying to control his diabetes and arthritic condition. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am to 10:00 am. He leaves to mourn one son, Aaron Dunklin of Columbus, Ohio; one sister, Ms. Louise Stroud of Warren; a niece he was raised with, Ms. Tammy Allgood of Warren; two grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. Read Also: In Strip shooting death, University of Alabama basketball player Darius Miles accused with capital murder. At an early age he was baptized and joined the New Hope Baptist Church in Cartersville, Virginia. Burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery. Williams died on December 3, 2015, at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Paul Williams killed himself in 1973, two years after he was asked to leave the group because of alcoholism and related health problems. RIP to Melvin Little Melvin Williams, 73, who made me begin to rethink the drug war. LEON 'POP' WILLIAMS, 79, a gospel music", "Review: Never Seen Your Face Melvin Williams", "Gospel Legend, Melvin Williams launches World Tour | 95.7 Hallelujah FM", "Fans Cheer as the Melvin Williams Group Performs | Fans chee", "Melvin Williams Group - Salam Azerbaycan TV - Baku Music College Students - Concert.wmv", "The Melvin Williams Group Chelyabinsk Pray On My Child", "The Melvin Williams Group on the Rhythm Road Brings American Music to Georgia | News Agency - GHN", "U.S. Department of State Announces The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad's 2011 Spring Tour Schedule | MuseWire music + technology magazine", "Preserve Traditional Gospel Music #PTGM", "Melvin Williams launches World Tour 'Where I Started From' Los Angeles Sentinel | Los Angeles Sentinel | Black News", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Melvin_Williams_(musician)&oldid=1105887933, 21st-century African-American male singers, 20th-century African-American male singers, Short description is different from Wikidata, Pages using infobox musical artist with associated acts, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, Blackberry, Compendia, Melvin Williams Entertainment / New Day Christian, This page was last edited on 22 August 2022, at 07:10. ``He sustained significant neurological damage, which was complicated by diabetes and other medical problems, Wise said. Melvin Gerald Williams departed this life on Monday, March 8, 2021 at the age 31. Leave your condolences to the family on this memorial page or send flowers to show you care. [4] During his sentence Melvin became extremely knowledgeable about the law and helped other inmates with their cases. Leave your condolences to the family on this memorial page or send flowers to show you care. 15, 2021. Love shalece your lil spoogie" To my little brother: "you were a loyal man to the people that was loyal to you, just know that I will forever love you brother and you will be truly missed by the entire family." [6], In the 1999 film Liberty Heights, the character Little Melvin portrayed by actor Orlando Jones is loosely based upon Williams in the early stages of his career. Melvin is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Marie Williams; children: Cheryl Sedam (Jim), Rodney Williams (Marg), Douglas Williams (Mary); many grandchildren, great-grandchildren; sister, Gloria Jean Shields. The groups first hit was ``The Way You Do the Things You Do in 1964. The wedding date has not yet been made public. Michael K. Williams 'Was Doing Well' Before Overdose, Wouldn't 'Knowingly' Take Fentanyl: Nephew, Michael K. Williams' Nephew Recalls Discovering His Uncle After Fentanyl Overdose: 'He's Gone', 4 Arrested for Alleged Role in 'The Wire' Actor Michael K. Williams' Overdose Death, William Hurt, Academy Award Winner and MCU Star, Dead at 71: Report, New York Yankees Outfielder Gerald Williams Dead at 55, Derek Jeter Pays Tribute: 'One of My Best Friends', All of Princess Diana's PEOPLE Magazine Covers Through the Years, Notable Figures & Moments in AAPI History to Celebrate This Week, from Kimora Lee Simmons to the Founding of Sony, Michael K. Williams, Actor Known for 'The Wire' and 'Lovecraft Country' , Dead at 54, Michael K. Williams Laid to Rest in Private Pennsylvania Funeral, 'Secrets of Playboy' Details How Hugh Hefner's Alleged Drug Culture Led to Overdose and Suicide, Michael K. Williams' Friend Ruben Santiago-Hudson Recalls Their Final Encounter: 'Let's Go to Church'. I will always see you through them. People come and go, but it still goes on, Otis Williams once said. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook, share memories, and condolences for the family. He later appeared as The Deacon in the HBO series The Wire and served as an inspiration for the show. Bio, Age, Wiki, Career, Height, Net Worth, Who is Aaron Franklin? He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force and Navy from 1983-1988, serving during the Iran-Iraq Military Conflict. Would you like to offer Melvin Dunklins loved ones a condolence message? His weak immune system led to the development of diabetes. 12 to Mar. Considered a drug kingpin in the 1960s,[1] Williams was known for trafficking heroin in Baltimore before he was sentenced to prison in 1985. MELVIN O. WILLIAMS On Thursday, June 18, 2020 Melvin O. Williams entered into eternal rest. He was 73. He is part of an extraordinary group of musicians / artists, e.g., Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Al McKay (formerly of Earth Wind & Fire), Jonathan Butler, Billy Ray Cyrus, Cesar Rosas (formerly of Los Lobas), Dick Dale (the King of Surfer Music), Kurt Cobain, Bobby Womack, Seal, Jimi Hendrix, Justin Bieber, and Albert King, Sr, to name a few. A proud Iron Worker with Local 580, Melvin was dedicated to his job. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. He then served his On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For Franklin, it was an extremely difficult battle. Simon tweeted his remembrance of Williams following the news of his death. Death record, obituary, funeral notice and information about the deceased person. [citation needed], In March 1999, he was convicted of a new offense. Receive obituaries from the city or cities of your choice. A unique and lasting tribute for a loved one. Tanya Haden: Net Worth, Bio, Age, Ethnicity, Height, Wiki, Relationship, Who is Katia Washington? Net Worth, Bio, Age, Parents, Height, Relationship. It is truly hard to phantom that he is gone. We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time. Franklin was the target of a robbery attack in Los Angeles in 1978 by an unidentified offender. We will always look to the beautiful buildings and creations he has left behind, standing tall and strong to the core, reminding us of his resiliency. Although he fought his illness valiantly, Melvin Franklin passed away at the age of 53. Masks are required. Eulogist: Ruling Elder H.N. Ways to honor MELVIN WILLIAMS's life and legacy. He cared for many and showed loved everywhere he went. [5] His older brother is Leonard, his younger brother is Doug Williams,[1] and his other brother was the late Frank Williams. Date of Birth: November 10,1931. On February 23, 1995, the original bass vocalist who contributed to the success of songs like The Way You Do the Thing You Do and My Girl passed away. Shalece: Melvin you were the only man that taught me how a man is supposed to provide and take care of his family. Authorize the publication of the original written obituary with the accompanying photo. He played the role of the Deacon starting in the third season. You may also light a candle in honor of Melvin Dunklin or send a beautiful flower arrangement to the funeral service. His fourth album, Duets, was released in 2001. My families hearts are shattered regarding the loss. Their smooth, toe-tapping rock and soul sound would eventually sell an estimated 22 million records during their career. [12] The project, released in July 2017, is the seventh studio album released by the chart-topping artist and features 12 new tracks, including the Top-20 new single track, "Claim It Now." I will always see you through them. These diseases diminished his commitment to and participation in the Temptations concerts. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Find the obituary of Melvin Dunklin (1954 - 2023) from Warren, OH. Piscataway Melvin B. Williams, 76, passed away Wednesday, March 2, 2022, in Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Rahway after a long and courageous battle with ALS. MELVIN WILLIAMS OBITUARY. If youre in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist. View The Obituary For Melvin DUNKLIN of Warren, Ohio. RIP, Melvin. His older brother is Leonard, his younger brother is Doug Williams, and his other brother was the late Frank Williams. Last September, the Temptations got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. WebIt is with great sadness that we announce the death of Melvin C. Williams of Telford, Pennsylvania, born in Osceola Mills, Pennsylvania, who passed away on February 2, 2022, at the age of 87, leaving to mourn family and friends. He passed away September 9, 2021 in Omaha, Nebraska. He married Velma Howard March 31, 1947. WebBORN June 17, 1944 DIED August 19, 2019 LOCATION Galveston, Texas Obituaries J. OBITUARY Lawrence Melvin Williams July 30, 1941 December 26, 2022. He was born to the late Melvin Sr. & Mary Strayhorn Williams of Charleston, Mo. To my love: "Rest up. You have funeral questions, we have answers. Answering Gods call, he departed this life peacefully during the early morning hours of March 11, 2022. Mel leaves to mourn the love of his life, Sandi; his At the age of 15, Franklin joined the group as the bass vocalist. Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. Melvin was educated in Anne Arundel County Public School system and attended Queenstown We will NEVER forget Melvin. Melvin Jr. Williams, a 26-year-old Black male, died Friday, July 23, after being shot near 16904 New Hampshire Ave. in Gardena, according to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner's records. To plant trees in memory, please visit the. Williams Jr., Melvin "99" Melvin Williams Jr., a laborer, died Sunday, June 19, 2005, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. A special message to daddy from Eden and Melvin: "Daddy I love you, I want you to know I will always be daddy's little girl. He was a 1969 graduate and class president of Luther P. Jackson High School. Condolences from all if us here in Kampala. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. You may be gone but your spirit lives through me, and your name lives forever. Visiting at Williams & Southall Funeral Home, 101 Loop 945, Donaldsonville, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. A Public Visitation will be held Monday, July 6, 2020 from 9 a.m. until hour of service 11 a.m. at Not About Me Ministries 3106 Branch Avenue Temple Hills, MD 20748. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. Obituary. What took place? Survivors include Joe's wife, Sharon Williams; sons, Andy Williams, Allan Williams and Mark Williams; sister, Brenda Hamilton and her husband, Expand the Memories and Condolences form. May the Lord comfort family during this difficult time. And in 2009, the Ambassador program expanded to all other genres of music.[21]. Obituary. Melvin Franklin was unquestionably a musical legend. Melvin's love of travel took him on many adventures before he settled in Piscataway Township, New Jersey, where he and his devoted wife, Lea, are communicants of St. Frances Cabrini. Sterling-McCullough Williams Funeral Chapel 1153 Main Ave SW, Warren, OH 44483. In his high school yearbook, you would read that he wanted to become a businessman. Melvin Williams, a former drug kingpin who helped inspire The Wire, died Thursday in Baltimore, the The Baltimore Sun reports. Ways to honor Melvin Williams's life and legacy. He was released from prison in September 2003. Williams was impressed by Franklins passion for music and invited him to join The Elgins, his singing group. Melvin Williams, a former drug kingpin who helped inspire The Wire, died Thursday in Baltimore, the The Baltimore Sun reports. Despite his unfortunate circumstances, he passed away in a noble and charismatic manner. Many people were shocked when they heard the news of his passing. It's unfortunate that we never met although we became family when Ivy visited us in Uganda. My soulja, my rider, my headache, my joy, and most of all The Love of My Life, I love you today, tomorrow, forever and always. Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. For more than 58 years, Melvin Williams plays the guitar in vassapoo, i.e., playing a right-handed guitar upside down and backwards with his left hand thereby the strings are upside-down chords.