Melody Ann Zambriski

The Life and Legacy of Melody Koelbl Zambriski

Melody Koelbl Zambriski was born on September 17, 1974, to Leslie and Fred Koelbl. She was the beloved middle child between her siblings, Karen and Glenn. The Koelbl children grew up in Holbrook, New York, and many of their summers were joyfully spent in New Hampshire at Camp Spofford—a place that held a special place in Melody’s heart.

A proud graduate of Sachem High School Class of 1992, Melody went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology from SUNY Geneseo. While there, Melody became a proud sister of the Arethusa sorority. She received her Masters degree at LIU CW Post in 2000.  Melody was truly made for this profession—dedicated to helping young children find their voice. One speech parent captured her perfectly in a heartfelt tribute: "You taught them all how to speak when they couldn’t. You were kind, gentle, and loving."

Melody met John Zambriski in 2001 and they said their vows on August 27, 2004. On February 24, 2007 they welcomed their beautiful twin daughters into the world, Hailey and Mackenzie. Together, they built a loving home, surrounded by an incredible group of family and friends. Melody thrived on creating memories. Organizing group trips and hosting unforgettable parties. Some of her favorite moments were spent on vacations, especially magical trips to Disney with family and friends. One quote perfectly captures the spirit of those times:  "Good times + crazy friends = Amazing memories."

For the past 13 years, Melody bravely battled cancer. Over the last four years, she confronted Stage four cancer with unwavering courage and conviction. Her spirit remained unshakable, and her love for her family never faltered. She poured herself into every moment, especially in preparing her daughters for their next chapter as they head off to college. Though she may no longer be with them in body, her love and presence will continue to guide them always. 

On April 13, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones, Melody slipped away peacefully. Her legacy of love, strength, and compassion lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.  "She deserves to rest."

Family will receive visitors on Tuesday from 2:00 - 4:30 p.m. & 7:00 - 9:30 p.m. at Raynor & D'Andrea Funeral Home 245 Montauk Highway West Sayville. A chapel service will take place at 8 p.m.

Donations in her name can be sent to https://www.metavivor.org/

Music Soothes the SOUL Top Songs       

Three little birds - Marley

Closer to Fine - Indigo Girls

Boys of Fall - Chesney

Southern Cross - Buffett

The Gambler - K. Rogers

Ho Hey - Lumineers

F**kin Perfect - Pink

I won’t back down - Petty

Losing My Religion - REM

Why should I cry for you? Sting

If you're reading this- T. McGraw

Where the streets have no name - U2

I will always love you - W. Houston

Toes- ZBB

The Lord’s Prayer - Matt Maher

I can only imagine - Mercyme

Come Thou Fount - Mercyme

Jack & Diane - J. Mellencamp

Downeaster ‘Alexa’ - Billy Joel

In my life - the Beatles

Top 12 Movies

Star Wars- trilogy

E.T. the extra -terrestrial

Raiders of the Lost Ark

The Harry Potter Movies

Good Will hunting

The Princess Bride

Toy Story Movies

The Martian

The Greatest Showman

Dead Poets Society

Willow

Stand By Me