Melvin Ross Smith's Obituary
On September 11th, we lost an amazing father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Not only that but his bride Marlene lost her best friend, protector, and lifetime companion of 66 years. His children Desiree, Gary and Ross lost a loving supportive dad. Melvin valued his Christian faith and treasured his family above all else. As much as possible, he was there for every milestone in his family’s life. Through good and challenging times, he stuck with his family.
Melvin R Smith was born on February 1st, 1934, not at a hospital but at his home in St. Petersburg not too far from his church and his spiritual family. He was the youngest of 6 children. His parents, James and Winifred Smith were Original Members (Charter Members) of this church. The sanctuary’s large stained-glass window was donated by his parents. Melvin grew up and for almost 90 years attended this church getting baptized on the sanctuary main stage with his son Ross in the early 90’s.
Mel’s early life journey started right here in St. Petersburg. He attended the only local High School of his time St. Petersburg High. He would sing the Alma Mater throughout the years many times as he passed the school. For his senior year he attended the Wesleyan Methodist College in South Carolina. After graduating High School, he entered the US Army. At that time, the military was drafting young men for the Korean War. Mel had decided to volunteer for the Army rather than be drafted. He was fortunate to spend his time in military service in Southern France instead of Korea. After leaving the Army with an Honorable Discharge he came back to the United States to begin his new journey in life.
His new life journey began once he arrived back in the United States. Melvin met his future bride, Marlene Austin. After dating for a couple of years they tied the knot on March 1st, 1957. For 66 years they spent their lives together and created an example of commitment to all that knew them. Shortly after getting married Mel attended the University of Florida – College of Engineering. About a year after being married Mel and Marlene welcomed their first child Desiree, followed by Gary, and then Ross.
After college he worked in the field of Technology Aerospace Research. Some companies he worked with were: Electronic Communication Inc (ECI), E-Systems and Raytheon. Most of his career was spent working on High Technology Development for Military Satellite Communication and Control Systems for the NASA programs. Some of his satisfying career projects were being part of the government’s Race to Space programs which included the Saturn and Apollo Mission projects and getting man on the moon. Melvin retired in 1999.
If he could say one last thing to each of us, his final words would be: A good name with God is better than fine oil, and the day of death is better than the day of birth. - Ecclesiastes 7:1
Remember it’s not how you start your life journey; the important thing is how you finish!
We will ALL miss you – as our friend, our father and as a committed Husband.. WE LOVE YOU!
Services will take place on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at Cornerstone Community Church in St. Petersburg. A visitation will take place beginning at 2:00 pm, with the funeral service taking place at 3:00 pm, and placement at Memorial Park Cemetery at 4:00 pm.
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