Melvin Lee Lightner Jr., 34, of Akron, Ohio, passed away at his home on July 31, 2025. He was born on October 10, 1990, in Canton, Ohio. He was affectionately known as “Mr. Melvin” by his late grandmother, Elizabeth Townsley, and as “Doogie Howser” by his aunt Dana.
Melvin was the beloved son of Katherine Davis and Melvin Lightner. He attended Massillon Washington High School, and upon graduation—and throughout his life—he obtained various certifications to improve his skill set, becoming an invaluable asset to all he served.
Melvin had a sharp creative eye, an infectious sense of humor, and a gift for making others feel seen and valued. He loved everyone, and when he was with you, you were his favorite. He had a deep devotion to God and to his mother, always going above and beyond to “give her her flowers” and make time for her. Melvin didn’t like drama and paid great attention to detail, which made him an excellent cook and gardener. He loved to line dance and spend time with family. He was a passionate community advocate who believed deeply in showing up for others in their time of need, often serving as a voice for those who had lost their own.
Melvin approached life with dedication, integrity, and heartfelt purpose. He surrounded himself with a circle of friends who became family, and he loved them fiercely. His kindness, resilience, and unwavering empathy for humanity will never be forgotten.
Melvin’s memory will be forever cherished by his parents, Katherine Davis and Melvin Lightner; his beloved dogs, Bentley and Fortune; his 15 siblings, Tiffany Davis, Michael (Zoe) High-Roden, Paula Toney, Colby Jenkins, Timothy Jones, Cherita Everly, Jennifer Lightner, Phillip Garnes, Philesha Garnes, Tylor Lightner, Lanisha Lightner, Teaira Lightner, Shavea Lightner, Kavion Dixon, and Melvin Lightner III.
His special aunt, Pastor Dana Dixon; his special niece and nephew, Jaila and Ja’Dyn Williams; his godmother, Ladonna Mayle; special cousins, Shawanda Townsley and Shana Watts; special friend, Edward Hamilton; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, James and Elizabeth Townsley, and his paternal grandparents, Richard Dickerson and Daisy Lightner Bell.