Melody M. Babcock

Melody Mary Babcock, of Ballston Spa, N.Y., passed away peacefully in her home on the night of September 24, 2025, with her family by her side. Melody was diagnosed with advanced endometrial cancer in January of this year. To all who knew her, Melody was a force of nature. A farm girl full of grit, she stoically fought for her life, but the complications of her illness ultimately overpowered even her. Her mind stayed strong even as her body betrayed her.
The daughter of Peter and Nellie (Rutan) Kampf, Melody grew up in Munnsville, N.Y., with her sister Tammy and brothers Terry, Kevin, and Nicholas. She found her calling as a nurse and worked for many years in that capacity. Her work ethic and drive were unrivaled. While living in Oneida, N.Y., Melody volunteered for a suicide prevention hotline and Girl Scouts. After moving to Ballston Spa, she donated her time and energy to the food pantry at Ballston Spa United Methodist Church. Not one to be idle, she organized the church thrift shop and yearly rummage sales where proceeds directly impacted those in need in her community. Melody also remained active in her professional nursing association and staffed her local election polling site. At home, she grew beautiful flower gardens and never missed decorating for a season or holiday. As many reading this know, Melody somehow still found time to make sure a thoughtful greeting card or gift arrived right on time.
Melody is survived by her husband, Richard Babcock; her stepson, Rick Babcock (Miriam) and their children Nick and Julie; her daughter Allison Gibney and her child Rowan Melody; her daughter Katie Wilde (Jackson); her sister Tammy (Ed); her brother Terry (Shirley); and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. A devoted mother and grandmother, one of Melody's greatest joys was the integral part she played in Rowan's upbringing. Her love was evident in her selfless nature and her boundless energy to care for others. She leaves behind a legacy in her children and her grandchildren who carry on her fiercely independent, kind and loving nature.
Her family will always be indebted to her oncologist, Dr. Margolis, in addition to the hospice and palliative care professionals at Saratoga Hospital and Albany Med. She had never before known such excellent medical care. Mitchell Forshey, PA, and the hospice care nurses, Heather and Julie, surrounded Melody and her family with incredible care and support in Melody's final days.
Funeral services are entrusted to Armer Funeral Home, Inc. in Ballston Spa, N.Y., and details will be announced at a later date. Her ashes will be interred in Ballston Spa Village Cemetery. In honor of Melody, please consider planting a perennial flower or donating to a local food pantry.