(AFRO photo / Alexis Taylor)
By Catherine Pugh
Special to the AFRO
Melvin Stukes, the former Baltimore City Councilman and member of the Maryland House of Delegates died peacefully at his home in Pikesville on Saturday, September 21. Stukes was 76 years-old.
Born March 15, 1948, Stukes was known for his work in the community and the church.
He married his companion of sixteen years, Catherine DeFord Stukes, a retired principal, on December 31, 2022.
“Because he heard God’s call to him, he willing made his transition with a smile on his face,” said Mrs. Stukes. “It was an honor and privilege to be a part of his life for sixteen years. Melvin followed the footsteps that God provided for him. He will be missed by all his family and friends. ‘Working together works’ was his theme,” she said.
Former Baltimore City Mayor Kurt Schmoke, now president of the University of Baltimore, also recalled Stukes’ famous words.
“He lived by the philosophy that “working together works,” said Schmoke, speaking of Stukes, who was a member of the Baltimore City Council from 1991-2004 for District 6.
Elected officials, community leaders, former constituents and friends were all saddened to learn of Stukes’ death.
Sheila Dixon, former Baltimore City mayor and former president of the City Council, spoke to Stukes’ heart for the community.
“Melvin loved the people he served,” she said. “He was a true public servant who only wanted the best for the people of Baltimore and for the state of Maryland. He fought hard for those who had challenges and was a superhero who was their biggest cheerleader. He was a man of God.”
Former Comptroller for the City of Baltimore Joan Pratt agreed.
“Councilmember Stukes’ leadership was always about his constituency and he represented himself and his district well. He was a pioneer.”
For eight years Melvin Stukes served in the Maryland House of Delegates, from 2007-2015.
Retired State Senator Verna Jones, who served with Stukes, spoke with the AFRO about his time in office.
“Melvin was an authentic team player, committed to the economic stability of Baltimore and a fearless fighter for the City and the residents of our 44th District. I am so honored to have served with him.”
Stukes served three years in the United States Air Force from 1965-68 and was a member of the Prince Hall Masons Enterprise Lodge Number 3 in Baltimore.
A 1975 graduate of Morgan State University, Stukes worked for the State of Maryland from 1975 until his retirement holding positions in the Comptroller of the Treasury office and the Department of Transportation.
Even after retirement, he continued to serve the community and remained on numerous boards and commissions including the Cherry Hill Improvement Association where he was a founding member and president, the advisory board of the South Baltimore Learning Center and the Baltimore Education and Cultural Institute. Stukes also stayed involved with the Leon Day Foundation, named in honor of Leon Day, who played for the Baltimore Black Sox in the Negro Baseball League.
“Melvin Stukes was a man for these times… a brother who exceeded the boundaries of devotion and service to others throughout his life! Well done our good and faithful servant! Rest in peace,” said Kwame Abayomi, the former Baltimore City Councilman known as Dr. Norman Handy Sr.
“Arrangements are currently being made,” said Catherine DeFord Stukes, adding that arrangements are being made with Wiley Funeral Home. “There will be a day of tributes and we will inform the AFRO as we complete them.”
Melvin Stukes is survived by his wife, Catherine DeFord Stukes, two daughters Touraine and Marian, three sisters, Darlene Maurice, Sandra Latunga and Mercedes Eugenia; Two stepchildren, Kevin DeFord and Sheila Cofield, and three grandchildren Dominique Pierre, Kenyetta and Andre Cofield.
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