Judith Joyce Melito April 11, 1935 – July 15, 2026

Judy Melito passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, at the age of 91. Born Judith Joyce Garcia on April 11, 1935, to John and Margaret Garcia, Judy was the second of three children. She was born and raised in Utica, New York, where she met and married John Melito on June 28, 1958, sharing 62 years of marriage before his passing in 2020. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Margaret Garcia; her sister, Barbara (Thomas) Bonanza; her brother, James Garcia; and her husband, John Melito. She is survived by her sons and daughter-in-law, John and Antoinette Melito and Christopher Melito; her three grandchildren, Olivia (James) Poland, Bianca Melito (Bryan Watts), and John Melito IV; her two great- grandchildren, Amelia and Caroline Poland, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Judy worked early in her life for G.E. and Gold Medal. Later, she served the senior citizens of Utica through the Food Program. She was a homemaker for most of her life and was best known for her exceptional baking. No one else in Utica had the touch when it came to her cookies, and she joyfully shared that gift with her grandchildren and family.In her later years, Judy enjoyed spending time in Florida with her son Christopher and manyfriends. She especially loved game nights, old black-and-white movies on TCM, cheering on Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, and ending the day with a piece (or two!) of German milk chocolate. She will be deeply missed by her loved ones.

Her family is deeply grateful for the kindness and friendship shown by Sean Schaffer; Wanda and Tony Zayas; Nate and Aida Djozo; Tony Meola and everyone at Meola's Garage; her dear friends Bea Esposito, Josie Morrock, and Pauline Santino; the caring staff of Hospice & Palliative Care; Ashley, Nicole, and Wally; and everyone at Abraham House in Rome, New York. Their compassion meant more than words can express.

Funeral and burial arrangements will be announced at a later date. Judy will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. Donations in Judy's memory may be made to Abraham House in Rome, New York.

Arrangements are under the guidance of John L Matt Funeral Home,Chadwicks,NY. To send an online greeting go to : www.johnlmattfuneralhome.com