Melvin Gatewood

Melvin Gatewood was born in Evansville, IN. (Vandenburg County) on February 9th, 1955. He was raised in Fort Wayne, IN by his natural parents, Richard Miller Gatewood Sr. and Pressley Gatewood. Melvin had eight siblings and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Melvin was a believer in Christ and attended "Turner Chapel Church" in Fort Wayne, IN. in which he was an active member.

During the span of Melvins' life beginning as a child, he fought epilepsy and other illnesses that prevented him from living a normal life. In spite of the physical and mental aliments he endured, Melvin was an overcomer and conqueror of his circumstances. He was one who could literally smile in the face of adversity and opposition and tell a person to "Trust God and that everything will be alright if you put your faith and trust in God." Although Melvin may not have finished high school because of the physical challenges he faced growing up, he was still a highly intelligent man that took pride in passing on wisdom to those in need. He was a determined, independent, persistent and strong-willed man who found his faith and destiny to be wrapped around God's Word and Promises. Above all other circular activities, Melvin enjoyed fellowship or socializing with his family, as he would reminisce about the past and tell old stories of his childhood and experiences. Melvin held a short-term position at McDonald's in Fort Wayne, IN. (part-time) temporarily while on disability, which was his only job of employment. Besides the contagious and radiating light of energy and love he would bring to his family and those around him, Melvin found interest in many hobbies, such as Chess, singing (Gospel or R&B. His favorite singing group was the "Stylistics."). He was passionate about drawing or creating artwork. He took an interest in challenging himself with how to play the organ at an early age and also loved to sew and coordinate clothing.

The surviving family Melvin left behind are his siblings, Jerry Gatewood, Frankie Gatewood - Stovall, Robert Gatewood and Grace Gatewood; son, Boris D. Thomas; grandchildren, Briauna S. Desrosiers and Mikayla M. Thomas; and a great-granddaughter, Katrielle A. Desrosiers.

He was preceded in death by siblings, Barbara Gene Gatewood, Deloris Gatewood, Silas Gatewood, and Geoffrey Richard Gatewood Jr.; and grandsons, Boris D. Thomas Jr. and Brycen D. Cassell-Thomas.

Funeral service will be 1:00 pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN with visitation two hours prior. Committal and burial at Lindenwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.