Janet Gilbert Gardner died at her home in Niskayuna, New York, on Sunday, February 8, with her family by her side. She was 83.
Born in Schenectady on March 17, 1931, she lived in her family home in Niskayuna throughout three generations. She was the daughter of the late Dr. Judson B. Gilbert and Jessie M. Gilbert of Schenectady and graduated from St. Agnes School in Albany in 1949, Maryland College for Women in Lutherville, Maryland, and Union University School of Nursing at Albany Hospital in 1954. She became a staff nurse upon graduation and later a supervisor and instructor at the Albany School for Practical Nurses at Albany Medical Center, a position she held for 12 years.
As an active participant in the Albany Medical Center’s School of Nursing Alumni Association, Ms. Gardner was instrumental in preserving a visual history of the nursing school. She worked with other alumni in producing a video entitled “Alumni Remembrances” and a book, “The Legend of Nursing.”
She had a passion for antiques and belonged to the Antiquesters of Schenectady and the Antiques Study Group of Schenectady. She also enjoyed gardening and belonged to the Garden Club of Schenectady.
A member of the First Reformed Church in Schenectady, Ms. Gardner was active in the Stephen Ministry Program, the Chancel Guild, the Women’s Group VII and many other committees throughout the years. She was a lifelong caregiver in both her nursing career and her work with Stephen Ministry. She was known for her devotion and loyalty to a vast network of friends, survivors said.
Ms. Gardner is survived by her husband of 53 years, Richard D. Gardner; and sons, Jeffrey Gardner and wife Beth of Water Mill, and James Gardner and wife Ruth of Seattle; and grandchildren, Jennifer and Andrew Gardner of Water Mill, and Madison and Taylor Gardner of Seattle.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21, at 11 a.m. at the First Reformed Church in Schenectady.
Memorial donations may be made to the First Reformed Church of Schenectady, 8 N. Church Street, Schenectady, NY 12305; the First Presbyterian Church, 2 South Main Street, Southampton, NY 11968; or the Nursing Foundation, 2113 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 12084.
on Feb 9, 2015