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Melvin Lee Little, a brilliant soul with a loving spirit, peacefully finished his earthly race on October 29, 2025, at Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, NJ. Born on May 24, 1933, in Manhattan, NY, to the late John Little and Betty Jane Walton; Melvin—affectionately known as Johnny—was a beacon of light who illuminated the lives of everyone blessed to know him.

At an early age, Melvin and his mother moved to Indian Woods, NC, to live with his grandfather. He often reflected on this formative time, describing life on his grandfather’s plantation—an eleven bedroom home rich with history and family tradition. These early experiences nurtured his appreciation for heritage, hard work, and resilience. As a teenager, Melvin returned to Manhattan to live with his father, carrying with him the strength and determination that would shape his remarkable life.

Melvin’s professional journey was defined by passion, precision, and pride. After briefly working in a warehouse, he discovered his true calling in the food industry. He joined Mary Lynn Soups as a Food Technologist, where he devoted more than five decades to perfecting his craft. In his role, he tested the balance of beef extracts in salt-based dehydration processes—a meticulous science that contributed to Mary Lynn’s reputation for quality and innovation. His unwavering attention to detail and commitment to excellence helped make the company a leader in its field.

Beyond his long and distinguished career, Melvin was also an entrepreneur at heart. He owned and operated Little’s Records and Little’s Billiard and Video Store, both reflections of his creativity, business acumen, and deep connection to his community.

To those who knew him, Melvin was the embodiment of kindness and compassion. His laughter was infectious, his generosity unending, and his empathy sincere. He was always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement—often quietly supporting others in ways that left a lasting impact. Melvin believed in doing good without recognition, giving freely from the heart.

Melvin now rejoins the love of his life, his devoted wife, Annie B. Little; his beloved sons, Donald Little and Waverly Branch; his cherished daughter, Rosalind Bowens; and his dear brothers and sisters who welcomed him home.

He leaves to treasure his memory: his loving grandson, James D. McIver; his granddaughter, Anntasia T. Johnson; great-grandsons, Jayden McIver, Jesiah Holmes, and Noah McIver; one precious great-granddaughter, Aria Jones; his devoted son-in-law, Albert Bowens; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever remember his laughter, generosity, and the quiet strength of his love.

Melvin’s life was a testament to faith, dedication, and grace. Though his earthly journey has come to a close, his legacy lives on through the countless hearts he touched. His light will continue to shine, reminding us all that a life lived in love is never truly gone.