Melvin D. Gooden was born on January 27, 1945 in Clayton, Alabama to the union of A. T. Gooden and Annie Laura Gooden. He departed this life on June 12, 2024, from a previous heart condition. Melvin is preceded in death by his parents, A.T. Gooden and Annie Laura Gooden, and brothers Richard and Oscar.

As an infant, his family moved from Alabama to Akron, Ohio. He later attended the Akron Public Schools and graduated from South High School. Upon graduation, Melvin was drafted into the United States Army in 1966. After serving in the Army, he was employed by Chrysler, where he was an inspector and retired after 30 years.

Melvin was called to serve the Lord at an early age and joined the St. John Christian Methodist Church, Akron, OH. He was a faithful member and strongly believed in tithing. He would send his money home to St. John Church on a regular basis. Melvin occasionally taught the Young Adults class in Vacation Bible School, and served on the Steward Board for a number of years. He taught Sunday School until a few days before his passing. He was a devout Christian and loved his church.

Melvin immensely enjoyed sports. During his past time, he regularly played tennis and bowling.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 30 years, Renea; daughters, Melissa Gooden and Rochelle Williams; sons, Mark Gooden (Leigh), Scott Gooden (Kara); brothers, Willie, Albert, Arthur (Sandy), Jesse and Jimmy Gooden; six grandchildren-lyanah Frost, Indyah Frost, Mason Gooden, Tyler Gooden, Ava Gooden, Scott Gooden, Jr., Loralei Fite, and Connor Fite; sister-in laws, Sandy Gooden and Kay Frances Gooden; Godson Keynen Millions, special friends, Brother Kenny and Tresscella McCoy from Surprise Arizona; and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his passing.

He will be deeply missed by his wife Renea, family, friends, and all who knew him.