Melvin Ferntino Strickland, 40, of Sikeston, Missouri, passed away Sunday, August 15, 2021, at St. Mary's Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. Born September 27, 1980, in Hayti, Missouri, he was the son of Ella Ochoamadrid.  He graduated high school and was employed as a dishwasher at Ryan's restaurant before later attending a welding trade school.  Melvin loved the outdoors, especially fishing and his momma's flower gardens. Watching basketball in the evenings, cheering for the L.A. Lakers, and spending time with his family were his favorite past-times. A people lover, he especially adored his children.

Survivors include his mother; his father Melvin Maxwell; a daughter, Talashia Southerland; a son, Zashaud Strickland.; a sister, Shatrilya Strickland (Zee); and a nephew, Kayden Taylor. A host of aunts, uncles, and cousins will mourn him. Melvin was preceded in death by a brother, Darintesz Strickland; a niece, Heavenly Taylor; and two nephews, Courvon and Malachi Taylor.

Visitation will be held Thursday, August 26, from 11:00 a.m. until time of funeral services at 1:00 p.m. at Smith Avenue Church of God.

Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery.