Melvin Thomas Gooden, affectionately known as “Mel”, age 86, of North Versailles, PA was born September 19, 1935, in McKeesport, PA. He was the beloved son of the late Thomas and Maggie (Williams) Gooden.

Melvin graduated from Duquesne High School in 1953. As a child, Melvin was diagnosed with a club foot, and it was challenging for him to walk. He overcame his disability and worked hard to walk, run and play resulting in a very successful sports career in high school. Melvin had a passion for playing football and basketball. He had an extraordinary left hand and was capable of snatching a football out of mid-air with his powerfully, graceful left hand. He was also a great track star earning a track scholarship to Temple University in Philadelphia PA. After attending Temple, Melvin continued to make Philadelphia his home. He married Eleanor (Phillips) Murtaza and to this union, four children were born.  He became an entrepreneur and opened his own business which he ran for many years. Melvin was a committed and dedicated employee for the Delaware County Transit Authority until his retirement. In his later years, he returned home to Pittsburgh, and he became a member of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge, Pride of the West 84 in McKeesport, Pa. He was intelligent and witty often laughing at his own jokes. Melvin was a God-fearing man and a lifelong member of Payne Chapel AME Church. Most of all, he loved the Lord and his church dearly. His favorite scripture was the 23rd Psalm which he frequently read.

Melvin departed this life on January 24, 2022, in McKeesport, Pa. He was proceeded in death by his parents; Thomas and Maggie Gooden, son, Glenn Gooden; sister, Rosetta Bennett, and brother, John Gooden.

He leaves to cherish his memory with great love and admiration: his daughter Melva (Michael) Fair of Penn Hills, two sons: Melvin Gooden, Sr. (Shelley Howard) of Wilkins Township, Michael (Barbara) Gooden of White Oak; two daughters-in-law, Monica Haynes, and Lawanda Gooden; eight grandchildren: Mirella Gooden, Chelsea Gooden, Patricia Gooden, Melvin Gooden, Jr, Dorian Gooden, Michael Gooden, Jr., Lamar Ledbetter, and Justin Gooden; three great-granddaughters: Zania, Camila and Milani; one brother, Alfred Gooden of White Oak, PA and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.