Melanie A. LaMora

NEW HARTFORD – Melanie A. LaMora, age 76, was reunited with her beloved parents when she passed away on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, surrounded by her family and friends. Born in Watertown on August 6, 1947, Melanie was the daughter of the late John A. “Jack” LaMora and Gloria E. (Garvin) LaMora Halliday. She was raised and educated in Watertown where she was a graduate of Watertown High School/Class of 1966. Melanie was one who was always willing to improve her knowledge. She thought intelligence was a wonderful thing and encouraged her children and granddaughters to pursue higher education. A natural born caregiver, Melanie often put the needs of others before her own. She was an old school mother and always did her best to keep her children on the straight and narrow. When it came to her granddaughters, she was extremely loving and supportive of all their endeavors. Melanie shared a special connection with each of her siblings. Mel had an unbreakable bond with her sister; they never argued and held nothing but admiration in their hearts for one another. Mel also enjoyed spending extended time her brother and sister-in-law in Vermont, especially the times spent swimming, cooking, and relaxing on the porch. Melanie was nonjudgemental and accepting of all walks of life. She appreciated that everyone and everything had a story to offer. This appreciation led her to become an avid collector of antique lamps and furniture. Although she considered herself an antique “dealer,” she was more of an antique “keeper!” She was also passionate about the care of animals and their protection from any cruelty. Melanie’s favorite pastime was collecting and critiquing books and movies. She would begin each critique with “you’re not going to like this!” She was known for her exemplary, self-taught culinary skills and enjoyed sharing her delectable creations that she made from scratch. Melanie was truly one of a kind and will be greatly missed. Melanie is survived by her beloved children, Jennifer Thomas, and Robert VandeNest, Jr.; precious granddaughters, Haleigh Wilson, and Brooke Wilson; siblings and their loves, Pamela “Pam” LaMora and James O’Toole, Deb Halliday, and John and Christy LaMora; many nieces, including Elizabeth LaMora, Jen LaMora, and Lori Gero, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and dear friends, Barb Obernesser, Paul Carson, Debbie Check, and Nancy Trottier. The family will honor and commemorate her life privately. Memorial contributions in Melanie’s honor may be made to the American Diabetes Association online at www.diabetes.org/donate.

Melanie A. LaMora

August 6, 1947 - June 19, 2024