Melvin Starling Thomas Sr., age 81, passed on April 2, 2023, in Pompano Beach, Florida. He was born on July 21, 1941 in St Augustine, Florida. to the late Willie and Emma S Thomas.

He graduated from Richard J. Murray High School in 1959.  Upon graduation from High School, Melvin moved to New York City and work in the Hospitality and Entertainment Industry. In the mid 1960's, he returned home, moved to South Florida where he worked with the City of Deerfield Beach in various capacities. In 1974 Melvin attended Southwest Florida Law Enforcement Academy and earned his certification.  He accepted a position as a Police Officer with Hendry County Sheriff's Office, where he worked for more than 25 years in the Glades Region, including City of South Bay and Okeechobee County. It was in Clewiston, Florida. where he met and married his lovely wife of 45 years, Mrs. Florida B. Thomas (Deceased).

Melvin earned his stripes by protecting and serving those within the Hendry County community. He was affectionately known as "Police" Melvin. His witty, smart, and charismatic persona became popular amongst those he served. He enjoyed dancing, cooking, riding motorcycles and dressing to impress with his custom-tailored suits and Stacy Adams shoes.

Melvin Starling Thomas, Sr. was an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement in St. Augustine, Florida. He participated in sit-ins, marches, and efforts to integrate hotels. He, along with several other participants in the movement tried to acquire rooms at a hotel and were turned away. They jumped in the hotel's pool and the owner put acid in the pool to keep them from swimming. All the demonstrators were arrested. He assisted in recruiting about 80 students from Florida Memorial College to participate in the Civil Rights Movement. As a result of his active participation in the Civil Rights Movement, Melvin was arrested several times. His contribution help advance the fight for equality in America.

Melvin is survived by his Brother Earl Thomas (Sandra), Sisters Barbara Cohan and Edna Rhodes, his loving Children Melvin Thomas Jr, Rev. Brian C. Thomas Sr. (Tracey), Melvin S. Thomas III (Tywala), Kenneth Thomas Sr. (Felicia) Rebecca Thomas, Byron Collins and Alafiya Thomas. He is preceded in death by his son Jeffery McGriff. His beloved Godchildren, Nicobi Hall, Fez Harden, Robert Corbett, Kendrick Butler, Herbert Simmons and Pamela Mindillo. Melvin leaves behind a host of friends, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and Dear Friend Pamela Fussell.