Melvin Allen was born to the late Earline Hopkins in Drew Mississippi and later moved to Chicago, Illinois where he graduated from Phillip High School in 1960. He was raised by his late grandparents, Pearl and Arthur until he decided to fight for his country and joined the military. Melvin enlisted in the Army as a reservist for several years and also as an active duty soldier on December 18, 1964 and served until September 20, 1966, in which he received an Honorable Discharge. During that time, he also proudly fought in the Vietnam War and earned several decorations including a Vietnam Service Medal, Expert (Rifle M-14), Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Medical Badge, a National Defense Service Medal, and a Parachutist Badge. Melvin loved country and western music and was an avid movie watcher and collector, often rating movies as though he was a professional movie critic. Melvin lived a life filled with adventures and always set goals for himself, even enrolling and attending college at the age of 70; he often marched to the beat of his own drum. He leaves to cherish his memories, step-daughter, Danielle, son in law, Anthony, grandchildren, Floyd, Lloyd, and Alyssa. Melvin fell ill in June and eventually slept peacefully and comfortably as he was called home to be with the Lord at 1:10 pm on Tuesday, October 16, 2018. He will be sorely missed but will remain in our hearts forever. Thank you for your service, Mr. Allen!
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