Melvin Maurice Echols Jr.

In Memory of Melvin Maurice Echols, Jr.
Melvin, also affectionately known as Mel, Junior, and Baby Boy by loved ones, peacefully departed this world for his heavenly home, with his children at his side, on Saturday, October 28, 2023. At age 58, he fought colon cancer with great courage for five years. His faith in God was his foundation and provided him with the strength to live each day to the fullest.

Melvin was born on February 22, 1965, to proud parents Melvin Maurice Echols, Sr. and Rita Ann Morgan Echols. Also instrumental in his upbringing was his stepfather, John Avery. He was the eldest of his siblings, admirably carrying the responsibility as “big brother” and protector of his younger sisters, Thrisha and Tiffany.

The biggest joys of Melvin’s life were his three children. He was first blessed with a beautiful daughter, LaChante, born in 1983, followed by two adorable sons, Melvin III born in 1985, and Mario born in 1986. He was a dedicated father to his children and deeply proud of them, often expressing how blessed he felt. Also holding a special place in Melvin’s heart were his children-in-love: Shadeidra, Devonte, Taneisha, Destiny, and DeAndre West.

Melvin was a man of many talents, excellent with his hands. He was a skilled disc jockey for many years, an art form he discovered during his matriculation at John Marshall High School, which led to him spinning for many events, including on-air at WNOV. Through his disc jockeying career, he received the DJ name Baby Boy. Melvin was also gifted in carpentry and electrical work, which are the two gifts that cemented his professional career. Melvin proudly spent most of his career in carpentry and electrical construction, contributing to the development and restoration of several building initiatives throughout greater Milwaukee and northeast Wisconsin.

Melvin also had a great love for cooking. Those who knew him best can probably recount a story or two about him smoking some meat for a cookout.

Although Melvin was smaller in stature and often perceived as quiet in demeanor, he was a sincere man who truly possessed a big heart. Family was very important to Melvin, and he often reached beyond himself to express his love. He will be sorely missed by his family and loved ones.

Melvin leaves to cherish his memory: daughter, LaChante Copeland Echols; sons, Melvin III and Mario Echols; children-in-love; Shadeidra, Devonte, Taneisha, Destiny, and DeAndre West; sisters, Thrisha Avery and Tiffany Avery-Nelson (Nick), stepfather, John Avery; grandmother, Daisy Echols; nine grandchildren, Laquari, Shaniece, Jaquario, Chantiana, Javeon, and Janescia Moore, JaMarion, Kemi, and Melvin Echols, IV; and a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones.

Melvin was preceded in death by his proud father, Melvin Echols, Sr. and beloved mother, Rita Ann Morgan Echols.

A private memorial service for family and friends will be held on December 2, 2023.