Melanie (Tiny) Shuster

Melanie "Tiny" Shuster, 94, of St. Johnsville, New York, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at the home in which she was born, after a courageous and long battle with cancer. She was born on April 8,1930, the daughter of the late William Henry and Marion (Sullivan) McMahon. 

Tiny is survived by her loving children: daughter, Doreen Faye Shuster of Herkimer; sons James E. Shuster of East Stone Arabia, Wayne H. Shuster (Lori Iacobucci) of St. Johnsville, Arthur T. Shuster (Donnalyn Eaton) of Wells, and Karl S. Shuster (Tina Elek) of Pickerington, Ohio. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Heather Hill (Ryan) of Ephratah, NY; Jennifer Passage of Schuylerville, NY ; Morgan Fazio (Anthony John) of Shrewsbury, MA; Alex Shuster (Diane) of Greenville, SC; Michael Shuster of Hillsboro, OR:  Benjamin Shuster (Kasey) of Canal Winchester, OH: Sean Shuster of Lancaster, OH and Kristen Shuster of Grove City, OH; as well as her great-grandchildren Ethan, Ian, Wyatt, Riley, and James. In addition, she leaves behind her half-brother, Richard McMahon (Patsy) of Memphis, TN; Shelly Logan, her loving caregiver of St. Johnsville; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tiny was the daughter of the late William Henry and Marion (Sullivan) McMahon. She was predeceased by her brother, William James McMahon, and her loving husband, Stanley.

After graduating from business school in 1949, she immediately put her education to use, running a successful farming business alongside her husband, Stanley, whom she married in 1950. Together, they worked tirelessly on their farm while raising a family and building a life full of community and dedication.

In the 1970s, Tiny discovered a lifelong passion for astrology and joined the American Federation of Astrologers in 1976, studying under renowned astrologer Betty Marks. Her knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject led her to be a guest speaker at various events such as the Century Club in Amsterdam and to write for Albany's internet radio for eight years. She was also a contributor to The Rensselaer Beacon, wrote for Country Bear in Lake Placid, Florida, and taught astrology at Fulmont Community College. Over the years, Tiny frequently appeared on radio and television shows and was invited to speak at private clubs nationwide.

With a keen eye for art, Tiny studied porcelain painting under Olga Michalski. Unlimited in her creativity, she found many mediums to express herself, including porcelain ware, crystal glass, and even jewelry.

Tiny was deeply involved in her community. She served on the local School and Planning boards and was a founding member and secretary for The Friends of St. Johnsville.

Known for her boundless energy, open heart, and inquisitive mind, Tiny approached life with a deep zest for learning and a genuine desire to help others. She was always eager to share her wisdom, lend support, or contribute to a good cause. Her positive influence will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, especially her family.

Tiny’s legacy will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and community, who will always cherish the memories of her warmth, unique energy, generosity, and deep wisdom.

The family will be receiving relatives and friends on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 4 - 7 pm at the locally owned and family operated, Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to the Masonic Lodge), 20 Bridge St., St. Johnsville, NY. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 10:00 am from the chapel of the funeral home, with Rev. David Johnson, Pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will follow at St. Johnsville Cemetery (by the High School.

All memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 32 W. Main St., St. Johnsville, NY 13452. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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