Elder Melvin Howard Shephard, Sr. was born July 23, 1937 to the late George and Juanita Shephard in Hockley, Texas. He was the youngest of three sons (Charles David, and Carl Eddie) born to this union and God smiled on them.
He and his brothers would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit at a very young age with Melvin receiving it at the age of nine. Melvin and his brothers grew strong in faith and grace in the Lord. Melvin not long afterwards, became an avid, gifted and anointed guitar player. He thrilled the congregation and delighted all with his gifted and enthusiastic persona.
In later years, he attended Prairie View A&M University and received a certificate in radio and TV before being drafted into the army.