New York, NY-     On Tuesday, October 28, 2025 Melvin Perkins Christian was received into the Loving Arms of Our Lord Jesus Christ in New York City, NY.

Melvin Perkins Christian, the son of the late Harvey Christian and the late Agnes Curtis was born in New York

City,  NY on July 19, 1942.  He was the youngest of three siblings and was preceded in death by Carolyn Scott and George Christian. Melvin attended public school in New York City and at an early age transferred to the public school systems in Richmond and Newport News, VA.

Most notably, Melvin was a proud graduate of the class of 1960 Huntington High School. During his years at Huntington High School Melvin participated in the Pythagorean Theorem Club and enrolled in Diversified Occupational Training. As a result of this training, Melvin worked for Mr. Smith, a well known Real Estate owner in the city of Newport News, VA.

After high school, Melvin furthered his education by attending the College of New Rochelle. Melvin was skilled in the field of Property Management, Maintenance and Rehabilitation, Business Proposal Writing, Project Development, Community Outreach and Social Service Referrals for New York City's most vulnerable populations.

Melvin also served on the Community Board of 10 of Manhattan and held the Title of Honorable Melvin P. Christian, Chair of the Housing Committee and held an office within the Harlem State office building on 125th street.

Melvin was a proud member of the Abyssinian Baptist Church located on 138th Street in New York City under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III and Rev. Dr. Kevin Johnson.  During his early years at Abyssinian Melvin also participated on the Community Development Committee under Reverend Brown 's leadership.

Melvin was also a member of Boyer Lodge No. 1, Mother Lodge of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York City located on 155th St in Manhattan.

Melvin was also presented with the Marjorie Matthew's Community Advocate Recognition Award, was appointed as a member of Community Board #10 by Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer who also recognized Melvin 's efforts and contributions as a board member, was given a certificate of award from Urban Homeownership, Inc. for outstanding achievement in rendering Urban Home-ownership development in the Harlem Community, and earned several of certificates of completion and achievement regarding the Department of Housing Preservation and Development in NewYork City.

Melvin met his friend and future wife, Messengeir Roselle Beckett Christian, as a childhood friend, that eventually lead to marriage that began in 1964. The couple started a family and relocated to New York City to further their education and life long goals.

Melvin leaves to cherish his memories his wife of 61 years Messengeir; daughters, Selena Roselle Boone and Cameo Monnette Christian; sons, Melvin Harvey Christian and Mohammed Christian Garland; aunt, Rev. Laura Christian; sister (loving cousin), Janice Reid; sisters in law, Carolyn Beckett Bandy, Otelia Beckett and Louetta Beckett ; brothers in law, Wallace Cornelius Beckett and Elmore Spencer II; grandchildren, Athena, Anthony, Shaquetta, Princess, Melvin (Brother) , Shamel and Angel; nieces, Denise (Dee Dee), Michelle, Tomika, Donna and Debbie (Mrs. Betty); nephews, Arthur II (Junnie), Horace, Cleveland, Antonio, Melvin , Elmore III, Stephon, Dominic, Marco, Michael, Junior (Mrs. Betty); and a host of other cousins, and many friends.

Viewing will be from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.  Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, November 13, 2025 at O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.