Melvin McDowell Jr. was born April 10, 1944 in Delhi, Lousiana to Melvin McDowell, Sr and Vergie McDowell. Melvin was baptized at an early age and joined the St. Paul Baptist Church in Sicily Island, La under the leadership of Pastor George Roy. He later joined Souls Of Christ Apostolic Church in Dallas, Texas under the leadership of Pastor Bessie Archie.

Melvin spent his early days in Delhi, Louisiana. He became accustomed to living in Northern Louisiana and most of his school years between the Southern parts of Louisiana. After completion of school, he settled in Dallas, Texas where he continued building his legacy with his growing family.

Melvin studied mechanical engineering as a teenager and was a 1963 graduate of Martin High School. He then pursued his entrepreneurial dreams operating several businesses in automotive mechanical engineering over the course of his life.

Melvin was distinguished and popular for over 60 years. Through his work, he positively impacted the lives of many people. The friendships he forged were the greatest reward of his professional life. Melvin dedicated countless hours to help others in need.

Melvin had a lifelong passion for cars, which began in his youth when he discovered the joy of fixing them. He loved to dismantle old car parts and replace them with new ones, always eager to enhance performance. Known affectionately as "Van" and "Mr. Quick" among his mechanic friends, Melvin dedicated countless hours to ProStop Racing, showcasing his need for speed and exceptional mechanical skills. His commitment and enthusiasm for the automotive world left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Melvin McDowell Jr. is proceeded in death by his parents, Melvin McDowell Sr. and Vergie McDowell, Sons: Aaron McDowell and Shawn McDowell,  Brothers: Willie McDowell and Earnest McDowell, Sister: Vergie Nelson.

Left to cherish the memories of Melvin McDowell Jr. Daughters: Qori McInnis, Kemeka Young, Shalinda McDowell, Amanda Williams, Vanessa McDowell, Gloria Price, Cynthia Finister, and Dawn Lee, Sons: DePaul Shavers and Anthony McDowell, Brothers: Henry McDowell, Julian Phillips, Jewel Phillips, and Columbus Phillips III, Sisters: Georgia Woods and Rubbie Cook, along with a host of family relatives and friends.