Melvin Lee Smothers

“The greatest among you shall be your servant” -Matthew 23:11

The Gift
Melvin Lee Smothers was born on January 25, 1966, in Hollandale, Mississippi, the son of James C. Sr. and Ruth Mae Smothers. He completed his divine purpose on this earthly journey on Sunday, December 5, 2021, at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. Age 55 years.

The Life
He lived a life of service, his hands were rarely still, his servant’s heart would not let him be. He set the wonderful example for his family and friends by giving of himself through his care, cooking, hospitality, and generous heart. He always had a kind word and smile to let you know that everything would be all right.

Melvin attended Saginaw Public Schools where he enjoyed playing basketball and was a proud graduate of Saginaw High School.

He was a highly gifted grill master that loved to throw something on the grill and make sure everyone had something to eat. Melvin believed in providing for his family which led him to employment in many industries. He was recently employed at Means Industries until his brief illness. Later in his journey, Melvin knew that his purpose wasn’t completed until he gave his life back to the Lord. This he did on July 4, 2021, at the Bethlehem Baptist Church under the leadership of his brother-in-law, Pastor Lafayette Simpson. His first response was “Whatever I can do to serve I will be available.”

The Legacy
He leaves to celebrate his life; his loving wife of 15 years, Tanja Smothers; children, De’Michael Smothers, Melvin Smothers, Jr., Steven Smothers, Toryon Williamson, Takara Dobson, Niko Griffin, Marcus Washington, and Marqeisha Washington; six-grandchildren; father-in-law and mother-in-law, James and Helen Murdock; sisters, Debry Smothers-Davis, Sarah C. Jenkins, Sarah K. Jenkins, Devonda Smothers, Sandra Primm, Clotes Smothers, Tammy Simpson, Rosemary (Reggie) Rutledge; brothers, Tommy Smothers, David Smothers, Pastor Lafayette Simpson, Pastors Taurus (Darlene) Simpson, Frederick Hooker; aunts, Betty Hamilton, Shirley Hamilton; uncle, Jim Hamilton; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends whom he loved dearly and are too numerous to mention.

Those Awaiting in Heaven
Melvin was proceeded in death by his parents, James, Sr. And Ruth Smothers; father-in-law, Aaron Simpson; brothers, Jerry, James Jr., and Robert Smothers; sisters-in-law, Janice Simpson, Cherie Eli; aunts, Bessie Holt, Leretha Marshall; uncles, Robert Hamilton, R.P. Webster; nephews, Daniel Smothers, James Smothers, Dakota Jenkins and James Jenkins.

The family would like to express special thanks to all our family and friends, Covenant Health Care, Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Daniel’s Den Ministries, Rev. Benjamin Smith, Ivan E. Phillips and the caring Staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel.