Melba Granlees

SCHENECTADY – Melba Granlees, 82, entered into the arms of her Lord on Saturday, June 28, 2025.
Melba was born in Girardot, Colombia, and attended high school and business school in Bogotá. She immigrated to the United States at a young age and proudly became a naturalized citizen. Determined to embrace her new country, Melba worked hard to learn English and excelled in many ways. She was employed as an office manager at Ellis Hospital and later worked for 25 years with Dr. Dolan, and subsequently for Dr. Syed. Melba was known for her dedication, professionalism, and warm spirit in the workplace.
A devout Catholic, Melba was a longtime and active parishioner of St. Anthony’s Church. She participated in many church activities, including serving as a Festa worker and kitchen volunteer. She was a Venerini Associate and a former member of the Sacred Heart League. Melba had a deep devotion to the saints, especially St. Rosa Venerini, St. Francis of Assisi, and St. Teresa of Avila.
Melba cherished the simple joys of life. She loved daily exercise sessions with her dear friends and tending to her beloved garden. She had a generous heart, supporting numerous charities, and she had an immense love for animals—especially dogs and cats.
Melba will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering faith, and her loving, generous spirit.
Melba was predeceased by her mother, Dilia Ramirez and her husband Neil Granlees.
She is survived by her devoted and loving sister and brother-in-law, Christina and David Victor; cousins, Mary (Brad) Hoyt, Vanessa (Jean) Fakhoury and Diana Aguilar; and her best-four legged companion Abbey; many cherished and heartfelt friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at St. Anthony’s Church at 11 am. Interment will follow in Parkview Cemetery.
For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made in Melba’s memory to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society at www.mohawkhumane.org ; the ASPCA at www.aspca.org or to St. Anthony’s Food Pantry