Melody A. Craft

October 7, 1959 - January 20, 2016

SCHENECTADY - Melody A. Bellinger Craft, 56, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday morning, January 20, 2016, with her loving family by her side, after a short courageous battle against cancer. Mel was born October 7, 1959 in Niskayuna to Lester and Nina Sisson Bellinger. She was a graduate of BH-BL School, and a long time employee for the State of New York. Melody finished her career at NYSTRS, where she met many friends after over 25 years of service. She retired in June 2015, and worked for the family business. Some of her finest and most treasured memories were of her childhood with her sister and later with her children and of course spending time with her granddaughter, Devyn whom she spoiled. She enjoyed many activities including gardening, crafts, sewing, reading and traveling to places such as Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, and various places in the United States. Her love for her family was undeniable and felt by all that knew her. She was predeceased in death by her parents and sisters, Sandy Bellinger and Cathy Nelson. She is survived by her daughter, Valerie (Mike) Flaherty, son, Charles G. Craft; granddaughter, Devyn Flaherty; sister, Karalee & Glenn Nelson; father-in- law, Charles E. Craft (Patricia Drago); nephews, Russell Nelson, (Chrissy and Billy), Chris Nelson, Curtis Nelson, (Jess, Lidia, Maddie, Quinn and Adam). Services will be held on Saturday, January 23rd, at 3 pm at the Rossi & Ditoro Funeral Home, 501 Union Street, with Deacon Joseph Romand, officiating. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the Rossi & Ditoro Funeral Home on Saturday from 1 pm until the service. Services and calling hours WILL NOT be cancelled on Saturday, due to the pending inclement weather. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make a donation in Melody's memory to: Operation Adopt a Soldier: 4281 Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or Capt. John J McKenna IV, Military Courtesy Room, 737 Albany Shaker Rd, Albany NY 12211.