MELVIN DARDEN

When I was a pre-teen/teen I sang in a group called the Pearly Gates along with my foster father, Edmond Cosby. Melvin was the main lead singer, and probably my first vocal role model. I learned a lot just listening to him. Though he was thirty years older, he was very warm and relatable and had a great sense of humor. I remember one night at a church engagement, before he sang, Melvin apologized in advance, because he had a cold. After he finished, one of the deacons of the church exclaimed, "I gotta get ME one of THEM colds!" I will always remember him fondly. Rest in Paradise, big brother. Andrew "Teddy Bear" Brown.

It is very hard to believe it has been six years since Melvin went home to be with the lord. This his remembrance was in my emails today. I will always remember my dear friend. Every time I hear someone singing Sam Cooke gospel Songs I think of Melvin Darden. No one can sing them like him. RIP my friend, your work on this earth was done, God said come on home now.

To The Darden's Family: You had a great and loving father and grandfather. He loved his family very much. We had so many wonderful times together in the eighties and nineties singing God's Praises. He was a 2nd Sam Cooke. I really missed our times together. Our loss is heaven's Gain. You have my deepest sympathy. With Love N. J. Broadie

TO THE FAMILY OF MELVIN,I VERY SAD TO HEAR OF YOUR LOST,MAY GOD BE WITH YOU AND KEEP YOU.I WILL ALWAYS REMENBER HIS WONDERFUL SINGING.

melvin will be miss but never forgotten tell mama hello for me love always lorraine a Brown

Davina &Family my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time look to God for salvation .

To daughters and family:
We send our sympathy and our prayers. May God be with you always.
Lawrence Branch (Purolator co-workers)

Laweeda you and your family are in my prayers. Continue to look to the Lord He will comfort and give you the strength you need to go forward each day.
Linda Faggins