(Courtesy photo)
By Sandy Arnette
Arnette Media Strategies
Melvin L. Stukes, a beloved political and social activist in Baltimore, died on Saturday, Sept. 21, at his home in Pikesville, Md. He was 76.
Stukes, who dedicated his life to public service and community advocacy, had a decorated career. He was an officer of the Cherry Hill Improvement Association (1979-1990s) and Hall of Fame inductee (2014), the first African American councilman for Baltimore’s 6th District (1991-2004) and a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 41 (2006-2015). He also worked in Maryland’s Revenue Administration Division (1975-1998) and for the Maryland Transit Administration (1998-2019).
Guided by his motto, “Working Together Works,” Stukes was passionate about African American history and heritage and had deep connections in Maryland and South Carolina. He was a 1965 graduate of Scott’s Branch High School in Summerton, S.C., and served for four years in the United States Air Force (1965-1969) before being honorably discharged. In 1975, he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Morgan State University.
An avid sports fan, Stukes played football, basketball and baseball in high school and had a deep love for Southern cooking and community gatherings. He helped revive the Scott’s Branch High School Alumni Association by organizing fundraisers and educational events, including a seminar on the historic 1952 Briggs v. Board of Education Supreme Court case and a private screening of the film, Bull Street.
Stukes was a true “Servant of the People,” dedicated to improving the lives of those he loved, mentored and served. He was cherished for his wisdom, integrity and unwavering commitment to his community.
Stukes is survived by his wife, Catherine DeFord Stukes; daughters Tauraine L. and Marian L. Stukes; stepchildren Kevin Deford and Shelia Cofield; sisters Sandra Chipungu (Stafford), Joan Stukes-Maurice (Alix) and Mercedes Eugenia; three step-grandchildren; four nieces; three nephews; one grandniece; one grandnephew; and many cousins, adopted family and friends.
Viewing:
Monday, October 7, 2024, from 5-8 p.m. (Tributes begin at 7 p.m.)
Wylie Funeral Home
9200 Liberty Road
Randallstown, MD 21133
Funeral Service:
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
Wake: 10 a.m.
Funeral: 11 a.m.
Union Bethel A.M.E. Church
8615 Church Lane
Randallstown, MD 21133
Livestream: https://unionbethelamec.org/media/livestream
Burial:
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
Immediately following the funeral service
Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery
11501 Garrison Forest Road
Owings Mills, MD 21117
This article was originally published by Arnette Media Strategies.
The post Celebration of life to honor Melvin L. Stukes’ legacy of community service and impact appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
