On January 3, 2014, Melvin Lynn Etienne, cherished husband to Sharon Etienne and loving step-father to Alexis, Ashley, and Brandon McDowell, died after a long struggle with diabetes. Melvin was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence G. Etienne, his mother, Elma (Pete) Etienne and his sister, Maudoria May Etienne. Melvin was a graduate of Capitol High School, class of 1978. He received a Bachelor of Architecture from Southern University. Melvin was employed by the U.S. General Services Administration for 24 years as a Project Manager. He was a member of Kappa Iota Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and The Price Hall Masons, Foster Military Lodge No. 67, both in Willingboro,NJ. At his death, Melvin was a resident of Brandywine, MD. Melvin was a loyal friend and a caring family man. Services will be held at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 3912 Gus Young Ave., Baton Rouge, La. at 10:00 a.m.