Albany - Melvin Leon Carr, 77, passed away on March 25, 2025, after a courageous 17-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born Melvin Cohen on September 24, 1947, in Washington, D.C., Mel was the first child of Albert and Eleanor Cohen. In 1955, his father changed the family name to Carr so he could find work. Tragically, just two short years later, Albert passed away unexpectedly at the age of 42 while in Florida. Following his death, Mel and his family returned to Albany to be near Eleanor’s large extended family (the Alfreds), where uncles Leonard, Ruby, and Harold stepped in as father figures to Mel and his brothers.

Mel graduated from Philip Schuyler High School in 1965, a trade school where he trained as an electrician. Around that time, he met the love of his life, Sondra “Sandy” Carr (née Birman). They married on March 9, 1969, beginning a remarkable 56-year partnership filled with love, family, and community service. In 1976, Mel founded Mel Carr Electric, now known throughout the Capital District for its signature Corvette-yellow vans.

Mel is survived by his devoted wife, Sandy, and their three sons: Alan (Beth) Carr of New York City; David (Shellie) Carr of Colonie; and Rob (Rachel) Carr of Latham. While only one son followed in Mel’s electrical footsteps, all three carry forward his values of integrity, perseverance, and humor.

Mel was deeply involved in community life. He was an active member of the Knights of Pythias, serving as Chancellor Commander and as a loan officer for their credit union. He also held leadership roles with Ohav Shalom Synagogue, serving as president of the Ohav Shalom Apartments and as a member of the synagogue’s board.

He is also survived by his six grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and joy: Alexa, Zac, Nathan, Kaylee, Carter, and Josh. Mel is further survived by his brother Murray Carr and was predeceased by his brother Howard Carr.

The funeral will take place on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Levine Memorial Chapel, 649 Washington Ave. in Albany with interment to follow at Independent Benevolent Cemetery, 260 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203. Mourning observance will be held at Mel and Sandy’s home in Colonie on Friday from 2:00–4:00 PM and will resume at 6:00 PM. Saturday visitation will be from 2:00 - 7:00 PM.

Remembrances, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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