Obituary of Melvin Merrill York II

Melvin Merrill York II (08/22/51 - 07/25/23)

In the presence of loved ones, Melvin Merrill York II Be-Bop), 71, made his transition from Earth to Glory on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at St Joseph's University and Medical Center in Paterson, NJ.  God sent angels to bring him home to join his loving parents, family, and friends, knowing that his legacy will continue through his children.

Affectionately known as Be-Bop, Be-Bomb, Bop, Dad, Pop, or Pop-Pop, Melvin was born on August 22, 1951, in St Joseph's Hospital in Paterson, NJ. Raised in Paterson, Be-Bop's curiosity and commitment values were forged through education (Passaic County Technical High School & East Side High School) and as a faithful, dedicated member of The Ambassador Drill Team.  Following high school, Be-bop enlisted in The United States Army, until in 1973. Be-Bop furthered his education at the Alfred Merrill School of Technology in NY and his professional career included mechanic and technician roles at the Center Lumber Co., Bell Telephone Company, and Pep Boys, R&S Strauss. Be-Bop spent the final 28 years of his career as a Mechanic at Marcal Paper Company, retiring in 2018.

Be-Bop was preceded in death by his parents Wilmore ‘Smike' Mills and Betty York (Flake Young); younger siblings, Kitty Young-Fuller, Lynette Young, and Kerry Young Sr., and niece Shakizza Fuller. Be-bop is survived by his youngest sibling Allison ‘Treasy’ Young (Larry Hunter) of Camden, South Carolina.

Be-Bop is also survived by his five sons, Melvin M. (Alnisa) York III of Lawrence Harbor, NJ; Rasul (Nikita) York of Atlanta, GA; Ta-Tanik York of Paterson, NJ; Damien Funchus of Newark, NJ; Jermaine Funchus of North Chesterfield, VA; only daughter, Starasia York, Elmwood Park, NJ; and one bonus son, Charles "CJ' Mann, of Statesboro, GA.

His legacy expands to include grandchildren, Da'Von York, Tatiana York, Cha'reana York, Rajon York, Jentel Stewart, Mekhi Woodard, Dee' Asia Funchus, De-Aira Funchus, Ava Funchus, and Damien Funchus Jr., and great-granddaughter, Logan Woolridge.

Be-bop also leaves behind close relationships with his former wife Charlene York Mann of Statesboro, GA, and former partner Sharon Funchus of Chesterfield, VA; sister-in-laws, Sharlene Young of Acworth, GA, and Tonya Ming of Hillside, NJ; nieces and nephews Kenya (Jihad) McCoy, Ebony Young, Quaneshia Young, Asmar Bease, Trehiemm Young, and Kerry Young Jr., two lifelong friends, Richard Blair and Norris Hand; and many cousins, family, and friends who were influenced by his wisdom & guidance.