Ernest “Mel” T. Easter

Ernest T. Easter “Mel”

Passed away on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the age of 78.

Ernest “Mel” Easter was a loving and devoted husband, son, brother, father, grand and great grandfather. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1946 to Anna Bell and O.C. Easter. He was the youngest of the 14 children they shared together.

On July 21, 2025, Mel departed his earthly life. He was proceeded in death by his father, his mother, his son Mel Easter, his grandson Isaiah Allen, and 12 siblings.

Mel graduated in 1964 from Parker High School in Birmingham. He was an all American athlete, playing basketball, football, and baseball. As a youth growing up in the South, he experienced injustice and witnessed others treated unfairly. Thru his bravery, he decided to be a change agent by marching for the civil rights of all with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He would later share stories about this time with his children and grandchildren to help strengthen them. We all are so proud of how he stood up for justice.

Mel and his brother Vernon had dreams of being drafted by the NBA. However, they were both drafted into the military. Mel served in the army from 1964-1967 and was stationed in Korea.

He was very industrious. While working for Allen Bradly, he attended night school. Once graduated, he was hired at Milwaukee County where he worked for 26 years. Again, in the spirit of advocating for all, he served as the Vice president of the AFSCME Union. After retiring as a supervisor, he worked to support families with supervised visitation. He told the funniest stories about all he met.

He was a wonderful provider and protector of all children, and especially his own. We would all look up at this powerful figure as he enlighten us about politics and everything else going on in the world. Through his intelligence he taught his children and grandchildren so many things. He would even take them fishing which he really enjoyed. He was also adventurous often skiing, skating, and bowling which he won many trophies. He even owned a pool hall at one point.

He leaves to cherish the memory of his laugh, smile, and great story telling, His Wife Jacqueline “Jackie” D. (Brock) Easter, His Daughters: Natalie (Easter) Allen (Troy Allen), Meagan (Easter) Robinson (Maurice Robinson), and Natasha (Easter) Burnett (Terrence Burnett), Step Daughter Michelle (Brock) Coleman (Darrell Coleman), Grandchildren; Paris Allen, Malik Allen, Chyna Allen, Xavien Easter-Bryant, Maurice Robinson Jr., Malachi Robinson, Zara Easter, Asja Williams, Josiah Coleman, Great Grandchildren; Icies Allen, Isreal Allen, Manila Allen, Isabella Allen, Kendyl Hughes, King Coleman, Messiah Coleman, Heaven Coleman, Emperor Coleman, Gabriella Allen, Chase Allen, Isaiah Allen Jr, Nova Franklin, Hamani Franklin, Supreme Coleman, Legend Allen, Seyen Allen, Apollo Easter, and Melanie Robinson. We would like to acknowledge that there is another great grandchild due in a few months.

Whether as a teen marching for civil rights, a soldier in the army, a strong family head, or vice president of the union, Mel was always working towards the betterment of others. We as his survivors will keep what he taught us treasured in our hearts.

Acknowledgements :
We would be remised not to acknowledge that those who helped to care for “Mr. Ernie” are also mourning. We would like to send a huge THANK YOU to all who helped provide wonderful care of him over the last four years, including the Veteran’s affairs (VA) medical and dental staff, VA Social Workers, Comfort Keepers Personal Caretakers, and selfless friends and family.

Visitation will be held at Wisconsin Memorial Park-Chapel of the Chimes, 13235 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, on Thursday, July 31, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM. Funeral Service at 2:00 PM. Burial to follow.

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