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Melanie Yildizlar Obituary
Melanie Yildizlar, Loving Wife & Mother Dies at age 45
Melanie Lyn Clay Yildizlar, long time resident of Greenwich CT, died after a long and courageous battle with cancer on March 27, 2013 at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx.
Melanie was born on January 8, 1968 in New Haven CT to parents Richard A Clay (deceased) and Mary Negley Clay. She attended Pulaski elementary school and Liverpool High School in NY. Melanie also attended Bosphorus University in Istanbul Turkey, and graduated from Hunter College (NYC) on May 1994 with a Bachelor's degree in English.
Melanie resided in Pulaski NY, Syracuse NY, Istanbul Turkey, London England, Manhattan NY before settling in Greenwich CT in 1997.
Melanie was known for her bright smile and her love of family and friends. She had a generous nature and was a good listener. She was warm and gracious and loved life. She was a leader in advocating for the Yildizlar Education Fund and Connecticut Women against Gun Violence. She also pursued her faith as an active participant in bible study.
She is predeceased by her father Rev. Richard A Clay (survived by Jacqueline). She is survived by her husband Matt H Yildizlar of Greenwich CT, her children Alara Kay Yildizlar and Andrew Melih Yildizlar, her mother Mary Negley Clay of Syracuse NY, sisters Melissa A Clay (engaged to Tom Towne), Amy Clay Bartolotta (Peter Bartolotta), sister-in-law Oya Noyan (Necati Tunc Noyan).
Service: Monday April 1, 2013 at 11 am at Christ Episcopal Church 254 E Putnam Ave Greenwich CT, burial following at St Mary's Putnam Cemetery with light reception to follow at L'Escale in Greenwich at 1 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the University of Buffalo Foundation, via the following secure website:https://ubfoundation.buffalo.edu/giving/index.php. Contributors are encouraged to reference Melanie's name and/or the Yildizlar Education Fund in the box titled "In Honor of / Memory of".
The family thanks all friends and extended family for their love and support during Melanie's long fight.
To leave an online condolence please visit www.leopgallaghergreenwich.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Melanie Yildizlar
Selim Barlas
April 16, 2013
Dayicim, acimiz çok büyük. Hergün yasiyor animsiyoruz. Melanie hayat dolu neseli bir insandi. Gözlerindeki isik herkesi aydinlatabilecek moral verebilecek düzeydeydi. Dualarimiz sizinle, çocuklarida çok öpüyorum.
April 12, 2013
Sevgili Ahmet,kaybin için çok üzgünüm, sana ve evlatlarina büyük aciniz için bassagligi ve sabirlar dilerim. Dünyalar güzeli sevgili Melanie'nin mekani cennet olsun. Nur içinde yatsin.
Didem Erenyol
Anne Gould Zaccheo
April 8, 2013
I am so very sorry to learn of Melanie's passing- we were best friends in the 1st grade class at Pulaski Elementary School and did exchange a few letters several years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
April 8, 2013
Sevgili Ahmet,acininizi buyuk bir uzuntuyle paylasiyoruz,evlatlarina ve sana sabirlar diliyoruz.Sevgili Melanie ye dualarimizi yolluyoruz huzur icinde yatsin...
Hale&Tangor Arutan
Stefani and Leonard Shavel
April 5, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew,
We are so very saddened by Melanie's passing. A wonderful person in many ways, her loss is felt deeply within our community and among everyone fortunate enough to know her.
With sincere condolences to you and your family,
Barbara Soper
April 3, 2013
Dear Clay Family - I was so sad to hear of Melanie's death. I am not sure you would remember but we would carpool together for dance class. Please know I am praying for all of you during this time of extreme sadness. I am most certain that the impact Melanie has made on this world will continue on forever. With loving prayers, Barbara (Cummings) Soper
Kirk Kinnear
April 3, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew, Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your wife and mom. Reflecting back on a remarkable life cut way too short, it was clear from the first time we met on Birchwood, that Melanie was just one of those rare people who could light up a whole room just by entering it. We'll never forget her smile, her vibrant eyes and her caring nature, but most of all, her famous "Hello Kinnears" phone messages that were nothing short of amazing! They would go on for minutes, but we were compelled to listen to the whole thing because they never get old. We look up to your entire family for the courage you have all shown through these tough years, battling this unfair disease with class and dignity.
We miss you big already Mel, but like the message spelled out on your license plate, “See-U”… we all will again, in a better place.
Alejandra Wortman (Lopez)
April 2, 2013
Our thoughts are with you in this moment. Wishing you strength and comfort during these trying times. We'll always cherish Melanie's great smile and kindness, during our years when our sons attended King School.
April 2, 2013
The gorgeousness of Melanie - from her smile, and lovely eyes to the warmth of her personality. I always loved our conversations - she took a deep interest in all I said and that was memorable - she was a listener, a stand out mother and wife and a woman of great style and beauty. We knew one another as parents at King School in Stamford and quite simply, she was someone who brightened the day. One could have been envious of her beauty but that was never the case because Melanie was the real deal in terms of a depth of personality and making everyone feel that they were important to her. No pretenses or superficial stuff.
With heartfelt condolences to her family - please know she touched so many who knew her,
Lynn Villency Cohen
April 2, 2013
Sevgili Ahmet;Alara ve Andrew;Melanie'nin güzel yüzünü hiç unutmiyacagim.O'na yattigi yerde huzur dilerkensizlere büyük sabirlar diliyorum
Nursel Hacikulaoglu
Rachel Benjenk
April 2, 2013
A bright comet sped through our skies too fast, on to ber next adventure. I know she is watching over her family from wherever she is now. Rest in peace, Mel.
Kathleen Sheehy
April 2, 2013
Matt, Alara, Andrew, Mary, Amy, Melissa,
My memories of Melanie are only happy ones. She was a beautiful person and a loving friend. Although our lives spun off in different directions, there is a hole in my heart today. My gorgeous high school friend (and bridesmaid!) will always be remembered with smiles.
Keeping you all in my prayers.
Taner Ozdes
April 2, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew.. I am a writer .. But they are times when we are speechless. I know Melanie long time , but didnt spend enough time to know her very well .. All the moments we were together, she was an angel, great mom and great wife and most of all great human-being .. Ahmet is my oldest friend since I was 8 years old. We have grown together and we were always good bodies . Life has good and bad times where we must adapt to keep going .. I know this is a very difficult times for all of you and all I can say " Our home is your home. If you need anything, anytime, you can call us .. We will be happy to see you .. Dear Matt , I share your deep sorrow and hope everyhting will be better for you and for your family .. With my warm regards .. Taner
Nese & Emre Ertem
April 2, 2013
Sevgili Ahmet, Alara ve Andrew, bu zor günlerinizde sizlerden uzakta olmak gerçekten üzücü, ama hem sizler hem de Melanie'nin güzel anilari daima kalbimizde olacak. Hepinizi çok seviyoruz ve Allah'tan sizlere güç vermesini diliyoruz. Sevgilerimizle
Ayse Ismet Torun
April 2, 2013
Sevgili Ahmet
Hayatinizin en zor dönemini geçirdiginiz bu günlerde acinizi en içten dileklerimizle paylasiyoruz. Sen, Melanie ve cocuklar bu mücadeleyi sevginizle verdiniz, bu dönemi de ayni sekilde atlatacaginiza inaniyor, Melanie'nin size "su anda bile" pozitif enerji verdigini dusunuyoruz.
April 1, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew,
We only lived next door to you at Waterford for eight months, but we came to know Melanie as a beautiful person both outside and inside. She was so supportive to me as I was going through chemo. Paul and I were so sad to read of her passing. She fought so hard. You all have our deepest sympathy.
Fondly,
Nancy Keeler
April 1, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew,
We will miss Melanie with her huge heart, big smile and great attitude. Our lives are richer for having known her.
Thinking of you.
With deepest sympathy,
Gail and Victor Khosla
Erica Klair
April 1, 2013
My first memory of Melanie was when i met her during Andrew's first field day at Cos Cob School. The funny memory of that day was I don't think Andrew's team placed too high (which was my son's team too) but, she acted like he won each and every race and flashed her gorgeous smile and thumbs up signature wave.
Through our son's friendship I was fortunate to get to know Melanie over these past couple of years. She was such a sweet and warm person with a beautiful smile. We are sad to hear about her passing. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Love, The Klair Family - Erica, Todd, Brooke & Bryce
Elizabeth Cuticelli
April 1, 2013
Matt, Alara and Andrew -
We have lost touch over the years, but I recently re-connected with Melanie. I am so sorry for the loss of a wonderful mother and loving wife. We were all blessed to have known Melanie. We spent many happy times before and after Christ Church Nursery School - at gymnastics, soccer, play dates and other activities. We will always remember her beautiful spirit. With all of our love,
John, Beth and Luke Cuticelli
Aysegul Volkan Koc
April 1, 2013
Sevgili Ahmet, Alara ve Andrew bu kederli gününüzde çok uzaklarda ama kalben yani basinizda oldugumuzu bilmenizi isteriz.
Melanie, hepimiz için hiçbir zaman kaybetmek istemeyecegimiz çok özel bir hediyeydi. Yasam boyu insanin çok az karsilasabilecegi kadar sevgi dolu bir insandi ve en büyük sihri de bize sundugu o sicacik sevgisi ile kendimizi çok özel hissetmemizi saglamasiydi. Biz, ilk tanidigimiz günden itibaren Melanie ile herkesten farkli bir gönül bagi kurdugumuza inandik; eminiz ki tüm sevenleri de aynen böyle hissediyor. Zarif ve güzel bedeninin içinde kocaman bir yüregi, yüreginde de herkese özel bir yeri vardi. Bu kisacik hayatinda onunla az sey paylastik ama ondan çok sey ögrendik. Isil isil sevgisini, sicacik içtenligini, özel dostlugunu, merhametini, her daim gülen yüzünü, nesesini, bitmeyen enerjisini, azmini hep çok özleyecegiz.O, her zaman bizim biricik Melosh'umuz olarak kalacak.
Sizi bütün sevgimizle kucakliyoruz, basiniz sag olsun.
Aysegül-Volkan-Selen
March 31, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew, My deepest condolences...Melanie was such a bright and beautiful person, so loving and always thoughtful of others. She contributed so much to our Bible study and will be deeply missed by everyone there. Hugs to you - I know you will miss her so much. Love, Julia Dunn
Liz Stern
March 31, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew, Our deepest sympathy and condolences. Melanie was truly an amazing person; her spirit shone so bright and touched us in a profound way that will forever change how we approach life. We will miss her terribly, but believe that she is in a good place and thankfully out of her pain. With much love, Liz & Randy
Lynn Baruh
March 31, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara, Andrew, Melissa, Amy and Mary:
We will miss Melanie incredibly. Her mischievous smile and jokes will remain with us forever. She had a genius for real friendship and love, and drawing in the kindest and truest to her circle. A true star, her love continues to shine on us.
With love,
Tori, Lynn, Julie, Carly and Aaron
Kim Taylor Severn
March 30, 2013
I am sad to hear this news. I have so many memories of Melanie from middle school. She was so much fun to be around. My condolences to her family.
Nancy Brosch
March 30, 2013
Melissa- I am very sadden to hear of your sister's passing. What a sweet person she was. Remembering that we lived close by to each other in Pulaski.Just knowing that she is with God and with your father. My deepest sympathy to you and the rest of the family! Your faith will lead the way in your journey during this time. My heart and prayers are with you! Love, Nancy Lundgren Brosch
Kristina McDonough
March 30, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew:
From our family to yours - we send your our deepest condolences, love, and support. Melanie was such a beautiful person both inside and out. And we will hold dear the many happy memories of fun and laughter together. Her courageous battle was a true testament to her love of her family, her friends, and her life. We know that her warmth and incandescent smile will be with us always.
Love, Kris, Phil, Spencer and Jack McDonough
Patricia Lovejoy
March 30, 2013
Melanie was the sweetest, loveliest woman. We all admired and respected her generosity and joy and courage. We will miss her. Patricia Lovejoy
March 30, 2013
Dearest Matt , Alara and Andrew,
I miss her so. But I know she is in a beautiful place, looking down at us with her glorious smile, and that she has no more pain.
With love,
Eva-Stina
Patty Brett
March 29, 2013
This is simply heartbreaking news. The entire Brett family offers you our deepest condolences. I will treasure fond memories of laughing with Melanie on the sidelines of Andrew and Alex's soccer games. What a bright light she was! Our prayers are with you always.
March 29, 2013
My dearest Melanie...You were simply the kindest and sweetest person I have ever met. You had so much strength and went through it all with such amazing grace.Always smiling, always positive...In fact, we have so much to learn from you. I will miss you and your wonderful friendship so much. And I will always remember the beautiful times we had in Istanbul and London together. Till we meet again my beautiful friend...I love you. You will be in our hearts forever.
Dearest Ahmet, Alara, Andrew and the family...My heart goes out to you all...Please always remember that you have a family in Istanbul and we are always here for you. Thinking and praying for you All.- Simru Önhon (Istanbul)
March 29, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew,
Melanie was such wonderful person and a good friend. No matter what was going on in her life, she always greeted one with a big smile and warm hug. I too, with countless other friends and family will miss her so much. May you be comforted with the beautiful memories she left behind.
With deepest sympathy,
Alenoosh
March 29, 2013
We will miss her smile and grace. Thinking of you, Matt, and your family. Love, The Girls at The Bendheim Cancer Center
March 29, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew, I only met Melanie six months ago, and instantly knew we would become friends. She was by far one of the warmest, kindest people I'd ever met. Her courage and positive attitude were beyond anything I'd ever witnessed. I was looking forward to the warmer weather so we could walk together as I promised we would, but sadly, our time was cut short. I feel so very blessed to have known such an extraordinary woman, and to have met such a wonderful family!
Sue Golden and family (CT)
Mamie & Matt Fulgieri
March 29, 2013
Her smile and face, which brightened every room she entered, will be sincerely missed. She touched so many lives that her death is significantly felt by all who had the good fortune of ever meeting Melanie. May she rest in peace and my you be comforted by the memories and love she had for her family.
With heavy hearts,
The Fulgieri Family
Selcuk Yaglikci
March 29, 2013
Dear Ahmet, Alara and Anrew, "Basiniz Sagolsun". We will miss her very much, god bless her. Ahu & Selcuk Yaglikci
March 29, 2013
Dear Amy and entire family, thinking of you and praying for your comfort during this time. - Carolyn Lumpkin (CT)
Jo and Peter Bartolotta
March 28, 2013
Although we did not get to spend as much time as we would have liked with Melanie, each time we did see her here in Syracuse, she was always a joy to be with. She loved her family very much and was generous to others and always had a sense of humor. I know she will be missed by all who knew and loved her but feel sure she is watching over her loved ones now in peace at last.
Jim Zito
March 28, 2013
"Be still, sad hearts, and cease repining;
Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;
Thy fate is the common fate of all,
Into each life some rain must fall..."-HWL
I hope you find solace in knowing Melanie is shining down on you all for all eternity...Love is never lost, it will always grow in the hearts it was planted.
With much love from my family to yours,
Jim Zito
Mary Cooper
March 28, 2013
Dear Matt, Alara and Andrew,
Melanie will always be remembered as a kind and loving wife, mother and a friend to all who were fortunate to meet her. She loved her family beyond measure, and cared deeply for others. She was courageous and humble, and will be missed so very much.
Joyce Volterra
March 27, 2013
In fondness and kindness of a beautiful person, especially on the inside. This is how I will remember Melanie, her constant interest in others, not wanting to draw attention to herself, her love for her children, her sense of hope. May
God bless her and keep her light shining forever.
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Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home - Greenwich31 Arch Street, Greenwich, CT 06830-6512
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