Melvin Cozart Sr.

Melvin Cozart ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Strong & Jones Funeral Home - Tallahassee on Mar. 17, 2026.It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Melvin Cozart Sr.Melvin Cozart Sr. was born on April 7, 1948, in Tallahassee, Florida to the late James Cozart Jr. and the late Ethel Hargrett Cozart.Melvin accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized under the leadership of Rev. T. T. Jackson at Greater Mount Pleasant Church. Later in his faith journey, he served faithfully as a Deacon at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, where he also taught Sunday School.He attended Riley Elementary School and later moved to Detroit, Michigan during the ninth grade, where he attended Southeastern High School. Melvin continued his education at Wayne State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree.Following his graduation, Melvin dedicated himself to a life of hard work and service. While living in Detroit, he worked for the United States Post Office and, at the same time, taught in the Detroit Public School System. Later, he returned to Tallahassee to be closer to his mother and transferred his postal career from the Detroit Post Office to Tallahassee, where he continued his work and service to the community while also teaching in the Leon County Public School System.Melvin was known for the love he had for his family and the joy he found in bringing people together. He was an avid bowler who won many championships and also enjoyed roller skating. Melvin was truly a family man. He faithfully visited his mother every day during his lunch break, never missing an opportunity to spend time with her. At family reunions and gatherings, he was often found behind a camera or video recorder, capturing precious memories of the people he loved. Although his children lived in Detroit, Michigan, he made sure they spent their summers with him, sending for them each year so they could spend the entire summer together. Melvin also took pride in helping the younger generation succeed, often working with his children, nieces, and nephews and teaching them mathematics to ensure they stayed ahead in school.Melvin was married to Alma Cozart, and from that union two children were born, Melvin Cozart Jr. and Malaika Cozart. He also fathered a daughter, Tiffany Johnson-Smith, with Jessie Williams. He later married Shirley Cozart, and from that union one child was born, Jabari Cozart. Melvin later married Gloria Smith-Cozart, who remained his wife until his passing.On Sunday, March 8, 2026, Melvin transitioned peacefully in his sleep. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, James Cozart Jr. and Ethel Hargrett Cozart; his sister, Gwenevere Cozart-Briggs; his brothers, Tyrone Cozart, James Cozart III and Alonzo Cozart; and his special niece Wanda Smith.He leaves to cherish his memory his sisters: Rev. Dr. Eddie Joyce Cozart-Fryson (Jerome), Juanita Enzor, and Wendeline Cozart-Bailey (Jesse); his brothers: Romeo Cozart (Altamease) and Jerry Cozart. His children: Melvin Cozart Jr., Malaika Cozart, Tiffany Johnson-Smith (Anthony), and Jabari Cozart (April). His beloved grandchildren: Charome Cozart, Daveon Thomas, Jabari Cozart Jr., Donovan Thomas, Ashley Smith, Khamari Cozart, Javier Cozart, Romel Cozart, Zayquan Smith, Mehki Blackwell, and Airez Smith. Two great-grandchildren: Ciana George and Nyla Schmitz. His aunts: Edith Hargrett-Ward, and Rose Hargrett. He is also survived by his niece Bernette Briggs White, and a host of other nieces and nephews, along with many family members and friends.Melvin will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his quiet strength, and the many memories he created with those he loved.To his children and grandchildren, he was more than a father and grandfather-he was a teacher, protector, and a constant source of love.Funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Tabernacle M.B. Church, with burial at Greenwood Cemetery.Viewing will be from 12:00 (Noon) to 6:00 P.M. Friday, March 20, 2026 at Strong & Jones Funeral Home.On behalf of the staff and management of Strong & Jones Funeral Home, Inc., we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Melvin Cozart Sr.Send flowers to the service of Melvin Cozart Sr.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.