Melvin Jon McDaniel, was born on Frebruary 7, 1952 to the late Choice and Mary McDaniel in Baltimore, Maryland. After attending Baltimore City public schools, Melvin enrolled in the U.S. Army in 1969, and received an honorable discharge in 1972. Affectionately nicknamed ''Sonny'' while a small boy and ''Sly'' as an adult, Melvin was known for his lifelong passion for automobiles. As a young boy, he knew the make and model of almost every automobile on the market, especially the domestic models. He built dozens of model cars, stockpiling them or occasionally giving them away to others. One of his happiest mements was when he was finally able to purchase his Chevrolet Corvett, a car on which he doted in his final years. Besides Melvin's love for automobiles, he was also a collector of music, particularly becoming fond of jazz in his later years. He amassed over 500 CD's, all neatly categorized alphabetically in his cabinet. He also had an extensive album and tape collection, as well. He loved to tinker with the mechanics of music. In the 1960's and 1970's, he recored and maintained, on reel-to-reel tape, local radio programs from local radio celebrities. In addition to his music and tools, Melvin also was a collector of antiques, paticularly furniture. He was also fond of restoring damaged antiques pieces, and displaying them in his home. In 1994, Melvin left Baltimore and settled in Houston Texas, where he lived the rest of his life. His friend since 1970, Ronald Evans, who moved to Houston earlier, was instrumental in helping Melvin get on his feet after leaving Baltimore. Ronald was also there to assist him during the later stages of his illness. The family would also like to extend a heartfelt ''thank you'' to Cassandra Brown for her caregiving and support during Melvin's illness. Melvin will always be remembered for his sense of humor, and love for his family, music, and cars. We will miss the many contributions he imparted into each of our lives. Melvin leaves to mourn: a son, Melvin Jr.; daughter, Tiffany McDaniel; brothers, Charles and Lawrence McDaniel; sisters, Constance McDaniel, Blondell Lucas, Delores McDaniel, and Marsha Price; nephews, Sidney and Otis Lucas, Kevin and Curtis McDaniel, Allen Jr, and Chritopher Price; nieces, Deirdre Peace, Pamela Clark, Linda McDaniel, Sherron and Keyonna McDaniel; grandchildren, Timothy and timiera Toland; brother-in-law, Allen Price, Sr.; sister-in-law, Jewel McDaniel; best friend, Ronald Evans; a host of other relatives and friends.