Melvin Anderson, Sr

Melvin Anderson Sr., age 83, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 26, 2025, at hi home in Terrytown, Louisiana. Born on January 2, 1942, in Algiers, Louisiana, Melvin lived a full and vibrant life rooted deeply in the community that shaped him.
He began his education at Samuel Lawton Elementary and graduated from L.B. Landry High School in 1958. After high school, Melvin entered the workforce with positions at D.H. Holmes and K & B Drugstore before securing a long-term role at American Can Company. When the company closed its doors in 1974, he transitioned to the Jefferson Parish Sewerage Department, where he dedicated 28 years of service until his retirement in 2005.
Melvin proudly served his country as a U.S. Army veteran. His commitment to service extended beyond the military into his spiritual life and community involvement. He was a 32nd-degree Mason with New Tuscan #5 and became a devoted member of Faith Temple Church of God in Christ on May 27, 2023. Just weeks later, on June 18, he was baptized-a moment of deep personal significance.

A lifelong resident of Algiers and an unmistakable presence around town, Melvin was known for dropping by to visit relatives and friends for conversation and camaraderie-often accompanied by a beverage or two. He had an infectious love for music across all genres and especially cherished two songs that held special meaning for him and his beloved wife Rita: "Can I Have This Dance" by Anne Murray and "Through the Years" by Kenny Rogers.
Melvin's passion for the New Orleans Saints was unwavering. From their earliest seasons to recent years, he remained a loyal fan-win or lose-always cheering on the Black and Gold from his favorite recliner. Sundays were sacred football days filled with spirited support for his team.
He also found joy in simple pleasure-taking long drives while listening to his favorite oldies station, singing along to timeless tunes that brought him peace and nostalgia.
Melvin is lovingly remembered by his wife, Rita Z. Anderson; daughters Phyllis J. Agee, Cheryl Anderson, Tracy Anderson, and Monica Spears-Lombard (Martin); sons Melvin Anderson Jr. and Kenneth Spears (Tammy); brother Irvin Anderson Sr. (Shirley); sister Marilyn Anderson; godsons John Bickham Jr. and Louis Sean Spears; grandchildren Louis, Ronica, Joshua, Jasmine, Olivia, Nigel, Nyla, Leana, Ahmad; In-laws Barbara Hills, Yolanda Montgomery and Alecia Williams (David), George Montgomery (Eleanor), Peter Thompson (Lillian)and many others who were touched by his warmth and humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents Hazel Lovey Payne-Anderson and Israel "JimE" Anderson, siblings Charlie Anderson Sr. and Anna M. Anderson, and nephew Derrick Anderson.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers who supported Melvin during his final days: the Ochsner Westbank ER staff; nurses of the third and fourth floors; ICU team; Heart of Hospice; Compassus; Mrs. Dorothy Magee; and Dr. Jake Rodi (PCP).

Melvin Anderson Sr.'s legacy is one of dedication-to family, faith, community, country-and an enduring love for life's simple joys. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all to carry it forward. A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 08:00 AM to 08:45 AM at Thompson Temple COGIC 1515 Whitney Ave. A Funeral Service will be held on June 11, 2025, from 09:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Thompson Temple COGIC 1515 Whitney Ave. He will be interred at Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Slidell, LA.
Repast to follow at Thompson Temple COGIC 1515 Whitney Ave. Gretna, LA 70053.
Funeral planning entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home (504) 208-2119
For online condolences please visit www.robinsonfamilyfuneralhome.com

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