Esther Marinello

Esther Marinello, 89, of Schenectady,, New York, passed away on June 26, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. Born on August 17, 1936, in Schenectady, New York, Esther lived a life defined by warmth, generosity, and an open door that never closed.

Esther graduated from Mont Pleasant High School in 1955 and went on to build a life rooted in service to others. She worked for 20 years with H&R Block and later as a teacher's aide at Hamilton Elementary School, but anyone who knew Esther knew that her real work happened around her kitchen table.

In 1964, she married the love of her life, Paul Marinello, and together they raised two sons, Paul Jr. and Johnathan. Every Sunday after church, Esther opened her home to family, friends, and anyone who happened to be visiting. There was always more than enough food and always room for one more. She never turned anyone away. That was simply who she was.

Beyond her kitchen, Esther enjoyed interior painting, working on jigsaw puzzles, and, perhaps surprisingly, cheering on her favorite professional wrestlers. She was a woman of many layers, and every one of them was genuine.

Esther was a lifelong and devoted member of Liberty Church, formerly known as Calvary Tabernacle, where she was always the first to volunteer. She also faithfully served meals at City Mission in Schenectady, living out her deep Christian faith through action and love.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul Marinello, her son, Paul Marinello Jr. and her four brothers Frank Imbesi, Daniel Saglimbeni, Anthony Saglimbeni and Carmen Saglimbeni. She is survived by her son, Johnathan Marinello; her sisters, Mary Lima and Jenny Abate; and her brother, John (Asenath) Saglimbeni; her daughter-in-law Stephanie and a large extended family.

Calling hours will be Monday July 6th from 10-12 noon at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home 1605 Helderberg Ave., Rotterdam. A 12 noon funeral service will immediately follow.

Burial will be in St. Cyril's Cemetery.

“For I am persuaded neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to City Mission of Schenectady in Esther Marinello's name.