Barbara Melendez

1933 - 2018

Barbara (nee Cahill) Melendez

Phoenix - Barbara, born July 6, 1933, died Tuesday February 20, 2018 after a brief illness. She was the beloved daughter of Mildred and James Cahill of Ramsey, New Jersey. Barbara was a graduate of Ramsey High School and Barnard College in NYC, as a Phi Beta Kappa member. Though confined to a wheelchair due to polio contracted while in high school Barbara had an outstanding career in Phoenix as the PR spokesperson for five area hospitals. During this time she met and married Dr. Joseph Melendez and became a stepmother to his five children - Christine, Catherine, Josef, John and Etienne. Barbara became instrumental in advocating for wheelchair accessibility on public transportation and at the Sky Harbor airport in Phoenix. She was named Woman of the Year by the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, complete with billboard and an awards ceremony. Following the death of her husband Barbara moved to The Terraces, a senior complex in Phoenix. Still active she spearheaded a raised garden project so that even seniors could continue their love of gardening. She also enjoyed her participation in the Book Club and loved the cerebral stimulation of that group. Barbara will be greatly missed by her sister Susan Ramsey; and her extended family in New Jersey, specially Dr. Kelly Ramsey who oversaw her medical care while in the hospital; also her constant companions who lovingly cared for her, Aurora Rochin for 20 years, and Trini Vergara for 8 years, who were with her to the very end. A Memorial service, a Celebration of Life, will be held 11:00 AM on Wednesday Feb. 28, 2018 in the chapel at The Terraces, 7550 N. 16th Street, Phoenix 85020. All are welcome to celebrate an extraordinary life. In lieu of flowers donations to The Terraces of Phoenix Foundation at https://www.humangood.org/the-terraces-of-phoenix, in Barbara's name would be gratefully appreciated. Visit http://www.hansenmortuary.com for condolences.