Melvin Boykin, 64, of Ellsworth Ave New Haven, CT, passed away on March 17, 2021, after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.  Melvin was a 1974 graduate of North Haven High, where he was a standout player on their basketball team. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching many sports and listening to the associated commentary from various talking heads. 

Melvin did not adopt any new music genre but stuck to his old favorites of R&B and Jazz.  He especially enjoyed outdoor concerts on the New Haven Green and Jazz Festivals.  Melvin was an amazing uncle to his nephew, Brett, and niece Taylor. He doted, supported, and praised them constantly, often boring his friends with drawn-out tales of any small accomplishment.

Melvin was preceded by his parents Eloise Boykin of North Haven and Melvin Boykin of Georgia. His brother, Richard Boykin, of New Haven, and his sister, Valerie Boykin, of Philadelphia. In addition to his nephew, Brett Boykin-Roach, and niece, Taylor Boykin-Roach, he is survived by his brother, Mark Boykin, sister Darlyne Boykin and her husband Lincoln Roach. He is also survived by his longtime partner, Carla Perkins of California.

Funeral services will be conducted in the Havens Family, North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue on Thursday morning, March 25th at 10:00.  Family and friends may call from 9:00 AM until time of service. Interment will follow in Beaverdale Memorial Park, New Haven.