Melvin James Cato was born to the late Sammie C. and Martha Richardson Cato on November 16, 1952. He joined St. Matthew Baptist Church of Athens, Louisiana, at an early age. Melvin was the third son of six children. Sammie Lee and Edward Ray preceded him in death.

Melvin attended Coleman High School and played varsity basketball. After graduating from high school, he married Barbara Flanagan, and to this union, two daughters were born, Latonya and Michele Cato.

Melvin enlisted and served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1970 to 1983. Then, after serving in the Marines for thirteen years, Melvin moved back home and worked with his dad. Later, he drove trucks and then worked at Willamette Industries until his health failed him and had to retire.

On May 4, 2002, Melvin married Jacqueline Shepherd, and to this union, two sons were born, Warren and Mylan Shepherd.

In 2006, Melvin established the four-wheeler club called "The Cato Crew", and the crew participated in many parades in the surrounding parishes. The Bonnie and Clyde Parade of Gibsland in May 2019 was his last ride.

Melvin was ordained a Deacon of the church in May 2016 and served as Church Trustee.

Melvin's favorite pastime was riding his four-wheeler, playing with his other toys, working on cars, and enjoying his grandchildren. Over the years, his sons, nieces, and nephews gave him the honorable name of "Sarge".

He leaves to cherish his memories: his loving and devoted wife of 40 years and 16 married, Jacqueline Shepherd Cato; two sons, Warren (Candiss) Shepherd of Minden, LA, and Mylan (Chezwic) Shepherd of Gibsland, LA; two daughters, Latonya (Carlos) Owens and Michele Cato, both of  Shreveport, LA; one brother, Fredrick (Debra) Cato of Gibsland, LA; two sisters, Linda C. Wilson of Gibsland, LA, and Ruby (Kenneth) Jones of Minden, LA; eleven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.