Melvin Arnett was born in Knoxville, TN on December 16, 1938 to Earlie Arnett and Margaret (Penn) Arnett . He was a life-long resident of Knoxville, TN. He peacefully gained his wings on the morning of September 14, 2023 at the age of 84 in the comforts of his home surrounded by his loving family. Melvin accepted Jesus Christ in his life at an early age. He was a faithful member of True Vine Missionary Baptist Church where he served as a Trustee, Deacon and a member of the choir.
He is predeceased by his parents Earlie & Margaret Arnett; wife Anna Margaret Arnett of whom he married on September 13, 1974 (37 years), daughter Tiretha Miller and his sister Carolyn Arnett.
Melvin is survived by his three daughters and son Natasha (Maurice) Vanderbilt , Dania (Allen) Bradby, Ursula Younge, Richard Higgins, James Arnett (brother), Shirley (Alvin) Haymond (sister) San Jose, CA, 11 loving grandchildren (Antonio Miller, Bryanna Grey, Carlos Grey III, DaShauna Meyers, Jordan Whitt, Amaya Whitt, Braylen Vanderbilt, Brennen Vanderbilt, Richard Higgins Jr., Ryan Higgins, & Robert Higgins), 15 great grandchildren and devoted niece Regina Agnew. Devoted friends Gene Satterfield, Bob Russell, Dre Moore.
Melvin graduated from Austin High School and was a proud active member of the Class of 1956. He also served in the US Army and was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany. After serving his time in the US Army, he returned to Knoxville, TN and was employed by Alcoa Aluminum where he retired after 33 years. He also had a mobile shoe shine business where he inherited the nickname of “Doc Tweet”.
Melvin was a devoted father, brother, uncle and friend to many. After retiring from Alcoa Aluminium, he spent most of his free time on the golf course, exercising with his Walking Club and attending activities such as yoga and water aerobics at the local YMCA. He was an avid golfer who frequented Williams Creek Golf Course and Whittle Springs Golf Course several times a week. He also participated in community activities and enjoyed the lunch program at the O’Connor Senior Center. He proudly helped spearhead many projects at his church and always went to visit the sick and shut in with his good friend and pastor Rev. Clark. Melvin was known for being a true jokester and could catch your attention with his distinguished whistle. He was also known as one of the coolest and sharpest dressed men in the community. He always kept a nice pair of perfectly shined shoes and a variety of hats that complimented his very nice attire. Melvin never met a stranger and was always willing to extend a word of advice or helping hand to those in need. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.
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