Talmadge Scales was born on May 22, 1941, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Alphonso and Ella Allen Scales. The sixth of eight children, he was affectionately known as “Doc,” a nickname earned in childhood when he would “doctor” the scrapes and bruises of neighborhood friends with mud and determination.

Talmadge attended A.H. Parker High School, where his lifelong love of music began to flourish and even formed several singing groups. Singing was more than a talent—it was his love language, his ministry, and his gift to the world.

Though he had the opportunity to attend college, Talmadge chose a different path. Wanting his younger sister, Imo, to have the opportunity to pursue higher education, he set aside his own plans and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1961. He served honorably as a Shipping Clerk until 1965, traveling the world and sharing his musical gifts wherever he went. Although not pursuing a college degree remained one of his greatest regrets, it inspired him to become one of education's strongest champions, encouraging generations of children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews to pursue their dreams and celebrating every accomplishment along the way.

After his military service, Talmadge settled in Detroit, Michigan. On January 28, 1967, he married his first wife, Sybil Cochran, and from that union came their beloved daughter, Glynnis Kamille Scales-Morris.

Later, life introduced him to Margaret J. Scales, the love of his life. Married on June 19, 1977, they shared nearly 49 years of love, faith, and partnership. Margaret had a son, Robert Stokes in a previous marriage. Talmadge lovingly raised Robert “Bobby” Stokes as his own and affectionately called Mr. “B”. Together he and Margaret welcomed their daughter, Kasandra Lynne Scales, on the day the Men of Covenant were recording their album, Good Morning, Lord.

Family was always his highest priority. When presented with opportunities that would have taken him away from those he loved, he chose family. His career included positions with Hudson’s as a Time Study Analyst, MascoTech, and J. Lewis Cooper, but those who knew him best understood that his true life's work was building relationships, serving others, and showing up for the people he loved.

After overcoming many personal struggles, Talmadge recommitted his life to God and remained steadfast in that commitment for the rest of his days. He served faithfully as a Deacon at Church of the New Covenant, ministering to the sick, and sharing encouragement through song and fellowship. Later in life, he joined Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, where he became an active member of the Mass Choir and Men's Chorus.

Music remained one of the defining joys of his life. Whether singing with choirs, the Men of Covenant, The Gospel Deliverers, or his church family, his smooth first tenor voice inspired countless hearts. His signature songs, including Tell It and Jesus Is Love, became sources of comfort, encouragement, and hope to many.

To his family, he was also known as the legendary “roll maker.” His homemade rolls, banana pudding, and pound cake were staples at family gatherings. He took great pride in passing his baking traditions to future generations, ensuring that both recipes and memories would endure.

In his prime, he enjoyed bowling, fishing, playing cards, finding new recipes to try, watching countless movies, going to casinos with this siblings, playing the lottery, and politics.

More than anything, Talmadge will be remembered for his presence. He celebrated graduations, birthdays, recitals, church programs, and family milestones with unwavering dedication with his camera always ready to capture every moment. Whether by car, bus, plane, or even by boat, he always found a way to be there. Even declining health and the need for oxygen could not keep him from showing up for those he loved.

Despite serious lung and heart disease later in life, Talmadge continued to minister through music and fellowship for as long as his health allowed. On June 4, 2026, the Lord called His faithful servant, and favorite first tenor, home. Surrounded by family and love, Talmadge departed this life leaving behind a legacy of faith, music, service, and devotion that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Talmadge was preceded in death by his parents, Alphonso and Ella Allen Scales, and his siblings Vonceil “Cooda” Lyas, Dwight “Man” Lyas, Diann “Juggy” Scales, Alvin “Sonny” Scales, Vivian “Pet” Haslip, Awilda “Babysister” Young, and Imo “Shaky” Taylor.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Margaret J. Scales; children Glynnis Kamille Scales-Morris (Nathaniel), Robert Lewis Stokes (Onza), and Dr. Kasandra Lynne Scales (Jeffrey); brothers Jerome “Feenie” Scales of Birmingham, Alabama, Alvin Young of Burke, Virginia and Leroy of Canada; grandchildren Aja H. Stokes, Onza R. Stokes, N'aja R. Stokes, Jalen A. Morris, great-niece Olivia Marbury; great-granddaughter Sophia C. Morris; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, church family, fellow musicians, and friends whose lives were enriched by his love, laughter, faith, and song.