- Date Of Birth: October 5, 1933
- Date Of Death: March 25, 2013
- State: Colorado
Melbourne Murray Williamson, Sr. was born on October 5, 1933, in Morrilton, Arkansas to his parents, Hurie Williamson and Lilly Maddison Williamson. He was the eighth child born in the family. He was raised surrounded by his brothers, Hurie, Jr., Eugene, Terry, Bobby and his sisters, Erma, Willie, Ella, Ruby, Brunetta, Juanita and Nina. As a child, he loved sports. He played basketball and football where he was the team captain. He was affectionately given the nickname “Boochie and Big Boo” by family and friends. He received his formal education in Morrilton where he graduated from Morrilton High School in 1953. Shortly after graduating from high school, Melbourne enlisted in the United States Army. While serving his country, he earned a National Defense Medal, an Army Occupational Medal while stationed in Germany and a Good Conduct Medal. He served with honor and distinction and was honorably discharged. On June 5, 1960, Melbourne united in holy matrimony to the former Mary Lee Freeman in Denver, Colorado. They first met in the late 1950’s while he was on leave from the military. Mel was both fascinated and intrigued by Mary’s wit, charm and beauty. To this union, Sharon, Mel Jr. and Vicki were born and with this union, he became the father of Melvin and Stanley. The family now complete they all shared many happy and precious moments together. In 2010, Melbourne and Mary celebrated 50 years of wedded bliss. Later his grandchildren Darnell, Natasha, Shamica, Carl, Reggie and his eleven great grandchildren were an additional source of joy and pride in his life. They too have many happy and memorable moments of time they all shared together. By profession, Melbourne was an Entrepreneur who was hard working and a man of many talents. He was employed as a Butcher for Capital Packing Company, he worked for a number of years at Gates Rubber Company, he was also employed by University Health and Science Center, as well as, Owner and Operator of Mel and Sons Landscaping Company. He was a man who was a natural born leader and a man who performed all his duties with integrity, honesty and always with a spirit of excellence.
