Melvin Raymond Molero

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Melvin “Mully” Raymond Molero, a devoted husband and beloved father and grandfather. Mully passed away at the age of 90 on Monday, January 13, 2025. A private memorial service was held at St. Bernard Catholic Church in his memory.

Born on Saturday, September 15, 1934, in New Orleans, Melvin was the son of Louis and Mae Molero, and brother to Louis and Adele. True to his Islenos heritage, Melvin was raised as a fisherman, trapper and hunter. Later in life, he and his brother established Molero’s Marina in Hopedale which they successfully operated for many years.

Melvin was devoted to his community, his faith and his family and will always be remembered for his deep love and devotion to each. He was married to his beloved wife, Loretta, for 63 years. Together, they raised three children, Cliff, Karen and Tina. Upon the untimely passing of Cliff, Melvin's faith and commitment to his family helped him remain an anchor for his loved ones.

Known as “Poppy” to his grandchildren and “Uncle Mully” to his nieces and nephews, Melvin Molero was a quick wit and a pillar of wisdom, comfort, and guidance. He will be remembered for his fishing stories, sense of humor and infectious smile. He took pride in watching his immediate and extended family grow, never shying from offering his opinion, encouragement and unconditional love. He shared his wisdom of the water and knowledge of hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. It was no secret that in his retirement, his passion remained alligator hunting - one that he shared proudly with his grandchildren.

Melvin’s commitment to his country and his church were evident in the pride he took as a member of the National Guard and in the humility he and his wife felt in being honored with the prestigious Order of the St. Louis IX Medallion, presented to them at the St. Louis Cathedral for their commitment of time and service to the church.

Melvin was preceded in death by his wife Loretta Freire Molero; son Clifford Raymond Molero; parents Louis Molero and Mae Ritter Molero; brother Louis Molero, sister Adele Fernandez and great-granddaughter Angel Cheramie.

He is survived by two daughters, Karen Molero Dragon (David) and Tina Molero Tinney, four grandchildren Jessica Cheramie (Jacob), Barret Dragon (Jessica), Mark Tinney (Madeline); and Austin Tinney (Marissa); and six great-grandchildren Victoria Cheramie, Mavis Dragon, Klara Tinney, Elizabeth Tinney, Amelia Tinney, and Audrey Tinney.

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support, and his daughters, Karen and Tina, extend their deep appreciation and gratitude to the staff of Fidelis Care for the love, compassion, and support they gave to their father and mother.

Melvin Molero will always be remembered for the love and joy he shared with others, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. As a tribute to his loving memory and legacy, the Loretta and Melvin “Mully” Molero Scholarship Fund has been established at Nunez Community College to support Adult Learners. Donations can be made by contacting Katherine Lemoine, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement,at [email protected] or 504-278-6491.