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August 20, 2019

In Remembrance: Mary Eleanor Anderson’51

Mary Eleanor Staines Anderson, affectionately known by many as “Mel,” was a beloved staff member and alumna of Roberts Wesleyan College. She died peacefully on Saturday, August 17, at age 93. She is survived by her husband of 62 years Al; daughter Sondra; son Al’86 (Stacy); and grandchildren (Jake and Ellie).

Mel graduated from Roberts Junior College and also graduated in the first class of Roberts Wesleyan College in 1951. In 1979, she came to work at her Alma Mater, and excelled in various positions in her 31 years at the College. Over her time, she served in many roles within the Development Office, ranging from a Secretary in College Relations to the Director of Publications and Special Events, to the Special Assistant to the VP for Institutional Advancement. Year after year, supervisors and co-workers noted her can-do attitude and her dedication to her work. She was always striving to be better and to provide exemplary service to our students, faculty and staff. In all the work that Mel did, she strove to advance the vision and mission of Roberts Wesleyan, always keeping Christ at the center of her work and inspiring others to do the same. Mel retired from Roberts in 2010. She was a Heritage Society member along with her husband Al. She was the first recipient of the Outstanding Staff Award in 1991, now named “The Mary Eleanor Anderson Staff Member of the Year Award,” in her honor. Mel received a Dedication in the 1990 Chesbronian and received the Alumna of the Year in 2001.

Mel has touched the lives of so many in the Roberts Wesleyan community and she will be deeply missed.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday August 22nd from 4-7pm and Saturday, August 24th from 10am-12pm at Leo Bean & Sons Funeral home, 2771 Chili Ave, Rochester 14624. The funeral service will be Sunday, August 25th at 2pm at Pearce Church, 4322 Buffalo Road, North Chili 14514.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Staines/Anderson Endowed Scholarship at Roberts Wesleyan College in honor of Mel Anderson, at 2301 Westside Drive, Rochester, NY 14624.


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