Melvin Elizabeth Turner

Melvin Elizabeth Turner, a cherished soul known for her unwavering spirit and boundless creativity, departed this life on May 4, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on January 12, 1943, Melvin’s journey unfolded in Vicksburg, Mississippi, where she imbibed the values of love, faith, and family.

A remarkable graduate of Rosa A. Temple High School in 1959, Melvin quickly distinguished herself as a confident and enthusiastic young woman, excelling not only in academics but also in basketball. With an insatiable thirst for knowledge, she embraced new challenges, first as a certified welder working with the Atlas Tank Company and eventually carving out a path that led her to pursue her passion for beauty and fashion. Melvin’s artistic talents found their canvas at Debbie Beauty School in Harvey, Illinois, where she honed her skills, delighting friends and family alike with her flair for hairstyling and her signature Jerri curls.

Her nurturing heart shone brightly as she transitioned back to Vicksburg to care for her ailing mother. This period marked a poignant chapter in her life, during which she also served as a dedicated bus driver for the Vicksburg Warren School District, exemplifying her commitment to service and community. Later, Melvin continued to lend her hand at Cooper Lighting, showcasing her spirit of perseverance despite personal loss.

Throughout her life, she remained steadfast in her faith, often reflecting on the goodness of God, which served as her anchor during challenging times. Hers was a life imbued with laughter and joy, filled with moments of friendship and love, and adorned with a love for flowers and fashion—an expression of her vibrant spirit.

Melvin leaves behind a treasure trove of memories and a legacy that will be cherished by her surviving family. She is mourned by her beloved kin, including James H. Judge of Vicksburg, MS; Patricia Lindsay of Midlothian, IL; Joe N. Neal (Annie) of Dixon, IL; Alton J. Neal of Chicago Heights, IL; Christine Neal of Lynwood, IL; Debra Neal of Dolton, IL; Frank (Peter) Young and Clifton Judge, Jr., both from Detroit, MI; and many others including Rose Wylie Oakforset, Mattie Wylie Robbins, Beverly Moffett Markham, Curtis Judge, Della Richardson, Christopher Judge (Faye), Jermey Judge, and Dannelle Judge, all from Vicksburg, MS. Her warmth lives on through her grandchildren, Patricia Caston (Will), Lenathan Neal, Patrika Judge, Kimberly and Kenyatta Judge, Jasmine and Constance Neal, Khailil, Alfred, Laylia, Keyshawn, Amos, William Smith, Demetria, Tianna, Christina Neal, Krystal Dampier, and Whitney Neal, along with a host of cherished grandchildren,  great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Melvin was preceded in death by her parents, Clifton and Corean; her son, Jesse Neal; her brother, Bubba Jean Judge; her daughter, Leasie Neal-Amos; and her husband, Malachi Turner. May her journey onwards be met with peace, as her legacy of love and laughter continues to inspire all who had the privilege to know her.

Funeral services to celebrate Melvin's life will take place at C J Williams Mortuary Center, located at 1625 Monroe Street, Vicksburg, MS, on May 17, 2024. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, culminating at 12:00 PM. She will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will forever dance among us.