On Tuesday morning, March 15, 2011, God's Angel of Mercy came to claim his own, Brother Melvin Kearney, the fourth oldest child of the late George Robert and Sarah Kearney.

Melvin was born January 15, 1933. At an early age, he joined the Oak Level Baptist Church in Manson, North Carolina. He attended the public schools of Warren County. He worked for Henderson Sanitarium Hospital. Upon leaving this position, he relocated to New York.

Melvin worked for Cascade Linen and Hospital Services of Brooklyn, New York. Shortly after he was joined in holy matrimony to Miss Fannie B. Britt. To this union, they were blessed with one son, Merlin Darrell Kearney, who preceded him in death. Melvin was a member of the Bergen Street Block Association, where he mentored and played sports with the youth.

Upon retirement, Melvin and Fannie relocated to Saint George, South Carolina. Melvin joined Saint Mark Baptist church where he served faithfully until his health failed.

He was preceded in death by four brothers—George Edward, McKinley, Elward and Julius Kearney; two sisters—Catherine K. Britt and Olga McNeal.

Melvin had an extraordinary love for his family. He would sacrifice himself for his family. He was an extremely loving and caring person. He treasured his relationship with his extended family. He loved sports and the outdoors. He had a passion for cleaning his home, and he enjoyed working and visiting his friends in the community.

With precious memories lingering, he will be sorely missed by his loving and devoted wife, Fannie B. Kearney of the home, one brother, Carl Dennis (Muriel Jean) Kearney of Williamson, Georgia; four sisters, Beulah Mae (Jessie) Smith of Far Rockaway, New York, Sarah E. Price of Brooklyn, New York, Inez (Willie) Harvey of Brooklyn, New York, Maxine (Alonzo) Dixon, of Willingboro, New Jersey; nine sisters-in-law and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.