CSM Melvin W. Howard USART, 76 years old, was born on November 30, 1944, in Winston-Salem, NC, and peacefully passed away at his home in Caseyville, IL, on Monday, February 15, 2021.

Melvin proudly served his country for 25 years in the United States Army. He enjoyed time with his family, both local and in Germany. Melvin was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Cora Lee Starks, his siblings, Lois Graham, Loretta Allen, Gloria DeVane, Claudette McCoy, Lawrence "Chip" Starks Jr., Arnold "Sack" Howard, and Shelia Moore.

Melvin is survived by his loving wife, Angela Howard, his son, Monté W. (Mahalaha) Howard, his step-daughters, Alison (Bill) Tindall and Leighanne (Michael) Smith, his sister, Phyllis Starks, and his grandchildren, Brooke Ray, Myles Howard, Mikyle Howard, and Leo Tindall, a special friend, Marion "JR" Alston, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

The family requests that memorial donations in honor of Melvin be made to the American Cancer Society.

Cremation rites are in the care of Herr Funeral Home, with burial at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at a later date.