Melvin Billups

Melvin Billups was born to Charlotte Billups on October 23, 1937 in St. Louis, Missouri. His mother, sister, brother, grandson Charles Burns Jr. and nephew Terrance Billups preceded him in death. Melvin has one daughter, Claretha Dupree. He was united in holy matrimony to Delores Jane Lacy and to this union one son was born Melvin James Jr. Melvin joined the United States Army in August of 1961 and was honorably discharged in August of 1963. Melvin attended Sumner High and received his High School diploma in 1973. Melvin was a faithful member of Union Memorial United Methodist Church since 1937 where he was a dedicated drummer for many years. He was a professional musician and played with the great Chuck Berry and Ike & Tina Turner. Melvin was employed at the Federal Record Center, Herjenk Cleaning Company and the United States Post Office. Melvin was a man of many talents and one of his funny characteristic was that Melvin loved his name and family. In his spare time he took classes at St. Louis University for Business Administration with a specialty in Industrial Relations, also classes at Florissant Valley in Legal Technology. He was a member of Lamp Lighters Social Club, Masonic Order West Gate #95 and Royal Arts King Solomon #38. Melvin peacefully transitioned at home on January 7th at the age of 87 years old. He will be missed by his daughter Claretha; son Melvin Jr.; granddaughter Ah'lexus; grandson Ralph Boyd Jr.; great granddaughter Jayla Boyd; nephews and a host of cousins and friends.