Ama Merla, born Deborah Ann Greenlaw, age 72, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
She was predeceased by her parents, David S. Greenlaw and Wilma L. Thomas.
Ama is survived by her devoted husband, Bruce Merla; her children, Joshua Watson, Jenna (Tom) Colby, and Christina (Michael) Peterson; her step-son, Richard Merla and her daughter-in-law Shelly; and her beloved grandchildren, Corbin, Drew, Grace, Owen, Liam, and Aaron. She is also survived by her siblings, Thomas Greenlaw and Martha (Ray) Beato, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
Ama was raised in Rochester, NY and grew up in the town of Mendon. She was a longtime member of the Mendon Pony Club and graduated from the Columbia School in 1970.
In 1996, she became a licensed massage therapist, a career she practiced with dedication for over twenty years, being known for her calm and healing touch. Alongside her husband Bruce, she also co-ran a beloved Airbnb out of their home for several years, where she provided guests with her scrumptious baked goods, fresh flowers from her gardens, and a nurturing presence that made everyone feel welcome.
A true creative spirit, Ama was an avid artist who found joy in a wide array of expressive mediums including watercolor, acrylics, drawing, pottery, sewing, jewelry making, gardening, and cooking. She loved camping and being immersed in nature, and could often be found tending the gardens she and Bruce cultivated with love around their home.
Known for her eclectic style, playful nature, and love of costuming, Ama brought vibrant magic and color to every room she entered. A beautiful spirit inside and out, she will be greatly missed, but remembered always for her love, creativity, and the light she brought to this world.
A celebration of Ama’s life will be held Sunday, June 29th at Genesee Valley Park. More details will be shared when they are finalized.
We ask that if you feel called, please take some time to sit in nature under the sun and among the flowers in memory of Ama, and feel her radiant energy offering you a heart-healing hug from beyond.
2 responses to “Merla, Deborah A.”
Ama.. the definition of love, radiance, joy, generosity, creativity… you can find her in the definitions of all these things. My friend, my office mate.. I’ll miss you till we meet again.
Sending love into the ethers for you and for all of your family and friends.
im sorry i couldn’t make it down there but i am so thankful for meeting her, Ama was one of the most amazing woman id ever know. she will be forever remembered and forever missed. Ama and Bruce are wonderful souls… God bless you Ama. XXXOOO!!!