Homegoing Celebration for Melvin Finn

Melvin Finn

Melvin Finn was born October 19, 1937, in Amite, Louisiana. He was the oldest of the three sons born to Nelson and Bertha Daniels Finn. God saw Melvin getting very weary and called him home early Monday morning, May 17, 2004. His family suffers the terrible loss of their wonderful father and grandfather. However, God's plan calls for Melvin to be in His presence...and to reunite with the loved once who went on before him.

Melvin Finn, known to many as "Tator" was an all around athlete. He excelled at basketball, track, football and boxing. It was at O.W. Dillon High School in Kentwood, Louisiana, that Melvin was named Champion of the Boxing Club. West Side High School was opened in Amite, Louisiana, where Melvin continued his high school studies. He graduated from West Side High School in 1956. After graduation, he attended Southern University through his athletic football scholarship.

In 1957, Melvin married his first love, Ora L. Finn, former principal of Amite High School. Melvin and Ora was blessed with three devoted children: Samara, Schirra, and Tigia. He worked in construction briefly in the 1960's to support his family. In August of 1966, Melvin Finn became the first Black policeman of the Town of Amite City. He served diligently with the force 24 years until his retirement in August of 1990. 

After retirement Melvin spent his leisure time enjoying his favorite past times. He was and avid fisherman. Melvin, Mr Mot, Mr. Raymond, and Mr. Roscoe spent many days on the water and returned home with big fish tales. He was Aldo a part of a local bowling leaguer for over twenty years. His partner, Dr. Percy Walker, Melva and other bowling partners continued to bowl well into the ninety. 

The Finn Family worshiped at Butler's AME Zoo Church faithfully. During worship services Melvin's wonderful baritone voice often filled the church singing praises to the Lord. As a part of the Butler's Male Chorus and the Senior Choir, he served dutifully as Choir President in 1993. 

He leaves to cherish his delightful memories: oldest daughter, Samara (husband Larry), Joseph of Atlanta, GA; only son Schirra Finn, Sr.; youngest daughter Tigia M. Finn both of Amite.; four grandchildren: Sean and Syrus Finn of Amite, Grace Watson of Franklinton, and Kahilla Finn of New Orleans; and a host to cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and close friends.

Mr. Finn is preceded in death by his parents, Nelson and Bertha Finn; his loving wife, Mrs. Ora L. Finn all of Amite, Louisiana., two brother, Alfred Charles Finn, Sr., and Nelson Finn, Jr., both of California.; cousin Melva Brumfield, of Amite, Louisiana..; several aunts and uncles, John Finn, Alphonse Finn, Gussie Daniels, Rosemary Dillon, Ruth Johnson, Lucille Bigelow, and Gertrude Barrett.

Reprint from the Funeral Program of Melvin Finn

Courtesy of Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. Amite