Melvin was a Baptist and confessed his hope and belief in Jesus Christ at an early age. He worked for the Highway Department for twenty years. He discovered a passion working with Sue Hartness. In his free time, he enjoyed drag racing, hanging out with friends, and spending quality time with family. He was preceded in death by his father, one sister, one grandson, grandmothers, grandfathers and a host of uncles, aunties.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 20 years, Jamie Cameron Riley; two sons, Melvin Riley, Jr., and Terrance Riley; three daughters, Malaysia Riley, Maliah Riley, and Candace Miller; two brothers, Alvin Riley and Fred Williams; one sister, Angela Evans; his mother, Atlean Riley; eleven grandchildren; his mother in law, Stephanie Lancaster; father in law, Jamie Shutes; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
A wake will be held Friday, March 28, 2025, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the Stephenson-Dearman Chapel. Funeral services will be Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. in the Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Chapel. Interment will be in Turner Hill Cemetery in Wilmar, Arkansas. You can sign Melvin's guestbook book here on his page.
Condolences(5)
Jo Jordan
Monticello, AR Thursday, March 27, 2025 My heart is sad but he was a good person an will missed deeply praying for the familyPeggy Everett
Monticello, AR Tuesday, March 25, 2025 My heart is heavy It seems unreal. Melvin was a one of kind cousin. I will miss our laughs,talks, and his jokes. He would always say something crazy to make me laugh. I know that God makes no mistakes. He just needed you to take your heavenly wings and fly high. I will cherish our memories forever, gone but will never be forgotten. Praying for the entire family. RIL My Cousin! RIP My Brother!!The Wood Family
Rolla, MO Tuesday, March 25, 2025 Melvin will missed by many. Not least my family. He was a dear friend to our Aunt. Especially when she was in need. And no one else was to be trusted with Ziggy, Rosie and Lilly. And even cantankerous Red. Melvin always had a smile on his face. And a story to tell. Mostly about his grandson. Whom he loved very much. Our sincerest condolences go out to his family. And his many friends.chester butler
Seagoville, TX Monday, March 24, 2025 Melvin was a cool guy that loved his family and friend's I pray that God blesses the family with strength during this difficult time... RIP BIG HOMIEAllen Dickerson
Monticello, AR Monday, March 24, 2025 R.I.P…. Prayers for the family