Virgil J. Meliti Sr., 101, of Selkirk, passed away on Feb. 26, 2025, at his home.
Born on June 1, 1923, and raised in Croton, New York, Virgil James Meliti Sr. was one of seven children born to Italian immigrants Teresina Quattrocchi and Nicholas Meliti. A World War II veteran, Virgil served in the Pacific Theater as a Naval Air Force Gunner, participating in 26 flights defending important shipping lanes. In addition, he participated in 11 harrowing anti-submarine nighttime patrols that brought him within range of hostile shore-based anti-aircraft weapons. Virgil also flew in six special missions conducted in very life-threatening situations. He received several awards and commendations for his valor, and returned home to Croton and his family in 1945.
Virgil began his 41-year career with the railroad, where he started as a brakeman. During those years, the railroad went through many iterations: from The New York Central Railroad, followed by The Penn Central Railroad, to Conrail, and then, to MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad. He served as vice-general chair of the United Transportation Union (UTU) and negotiated the collective bargaining agreement between Metro North Railroad and the UTU. Virgil also served as local chair of Local 1763 of the Hudson Division for Conductors and Trainmen. Many subsequent and current railroad employees benefited from his tenacity and outstanding negotiating skills.
Beyond his 41-year career, Virgil always stepped up to volunteer and help others. He served as a Croton School Board member, and along with his wife, Grace, co-chaired the Parent Teacher’s Association at Frank G. Lindsey Elementary School in Montrose, New York. Virgil was also an active life member of four fraternal organizations: the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and the Knights of Columbus (K of C).
After moving north to Ravena, New York, upon retiring, Virgil continued to serve others through the local chapters of several fraternal organizations. In addition, most Sundays he assisted at the Church of Saint Patrick in Ravena, New York, except when he and Grace (and lifelong friend Peg Jacobs) drove to Florida for fun in the sun! Virgil did not like to be idle, and when not volunteering or making outstanding sauce and meatballs, he could be found gardening, listening to the New York Yankee games, reading, and doting on his beautiful wife, their children, and grandchildren.
Virgil was blessed to marry the love of his life, Grace Deihsler, and to spend 50-plus years together. Theirs was a perfect marriage, filled with fun, love and respect, and a deep commitment to family and faith. Virgil and Grace had four children, including a special friend they consider a family member, and took in anyone needing help and love, including both his own mother and Grace’s parents when they struggled living independently. Their table was always full, and the coffee pot was always on!
Virgil was predeceased by his wife Grace and their son, Stephen James. Other family include sons Nicholas Meliti (Christa), Virgil James Meliti, Jr. (Coleen, deceased), Thomas Waldron (Denise), and daughter, Michele Brumsey (Terry), with whom Virgil lived for 22 years. Virgil also leaves behind grandchildren Erin Corral, Megan Baughn, James C. Meliti, Jamey Brumsey, Samuel Brumsey, Madeline Brumsey, Ben Waldron, and Nate Waldron.
Special gratitude must be given to Virgil’s personal caregivers, Shaniece Starr Barnes and Paulette Morehouse Malagrida. For a year, these astounding women showered Virgil with love, enjoyed hours of laughter and many conversations, and can never be repaid for their excellent care and dedication. The family also extends thanks to the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center Home Based care team who brought the VA’s excellent care to their door, and sends special thanks to the Community Hospice of Albany County staff who helped them navigate the loss of a great man.
Relatives and friends may call on Friday, March 7, 2025, at the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena from 4-7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. in the Church of the Holy Name of Mary, 114 Grand St., Croton, NY 10520. Burial will follow with military honors at the Bethel Cemetery, 43 Old Post S, Croton, NY 10520.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Virgil’s name to The Community Hospice Foundation at 310 South Manning Boulevard, Albany, NY 12208. Call 518-724-0200; or go to www.communityhospice.org (please note both Virgil’s name and your preference that your gift is targeted to the Albany County Team).
