Saratoga Springs, NY - Renee Khair Akel, 99, died peacefully on December 22, 2015.  She was predeceased by her husband, Metrie Akel, co-founder of Binghamton Giant Food Markets, Inc.  and her daughter, Lillian Akel Ambrosino.

Renee was a woman apart.  She was loved and admired by her family and friends for her dignity, grace, kindness, elegance and unconditional love for her family.  She is survived by her daughters Yvette Akel, Madeline Akel, and Renee Akel Rosebrook; granddaughter Julie Ambrosino Casey (Daniel); grandsons Michael Ambrosino (Katrina), Jonathan Ambrosino (Eric), Matthew Rosebrook (Carrie), and Michael Rosebrook; great-granddaughters, Nicole Casey, Chloe Casey, and Santisia Ambrosino; her brother, Antoine Khair (Janine), and her nephews, Ferris Akel (Louise), George Akel (Sally), and Ronald Akel (Beth) as well as several great-nieces and nephews.  She is also survived by her son-in-law, Michael Ambrosino.

Private funeral services were held on Dec.26, 2015 at Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church, 44 Main St., Binghamton, NY.  Reverend Glenn Mahaffey officiated.  Burial was in Floral Park Cemetery, Johnson City, NY.

The family wants to thank her devoted and caring nurse and caregivers, Judy Braim, Jennifer Parent, Mary Rose, Linda Senecal, Robin Benson, and Lori Theriault.  Thanks, also, to her compassionate and expert doctor, Marianne Mustafa.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Renee may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com