Obituary of Kathleen M. Chandler

Rexford - Kathleen McElroy Chandler 78, of Coburg Village, formerly of Dean St, died Friday, October 23, 2009 at Ellis Hospital with her loving family at her side. Born in Schenectady, daughter of the late Edward and Katherine Keigher McElroy, she was a life-long resident. Kathleen graduated from Nott Terrace High School in1949 and worked for the New York Telephone Company until she left to become a full-time homemaker. She was the loving wife of 44 years to Earl F. Chandler Jr. He predeceased her in 1997. Kathleen was the devoted companion of Albert Uren for the last ten years of her life. She is survived by her children Kate (Alan) Hamlin, Arlene Chandler Moran, and Michael (Debbie) Chandler of Schenectady, Alison Chandler (Fred Johnson) of Rhinebeck, Thaddeus Chandler (Ann Albertson) of Mt. Upton, Emily (Billy) Witbeck of Leicester, MA, and Theresa (Peter) Fallon of Arlington, VA. She was the loving sister of Edward McElroy of Schenectady and the late Geraldine Keyes of Amityville, NY. In addition to Edward, she is survived by 12 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was a communicant of St. Helens RC Church and a long-time friend of Bill W. During her long life, Kathleen had wide-ranging interests that touched many lives. She raised seven children and nurtured countless other friends and "Chandlers by Choice". For 35 years she led family expeditions to Hidden Lake Girl Scout Camp. She was a voracious reader who loved the power of words and who spoke many wise ones. She co-founded a small business including a child safety products company with her dear friend, the late Lois Cummings. In her later life, she traveled around the globe; including spending months in the South Pacific and French Polynesia, the Middle East, Alaska, and South America. Her companions on these adventures often included her brother Edward or her partner Albert. She was known for many talents such as her homemade applesauce and pies, her beautiful gardens, her words of wisdom, her kind and thoughtful notes of encouragement to family and friends, and her courage and serenity. Calling hours will be Sunday, October 25th from 2 to 4pm and 6 to 8pm at the Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St., Schenectady, for those who wish to call. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 26, 2009 at 9am at St. Helens RC Church, Niskayuna, with internment to follow at Most Holy Reedemer Cemetery, Niskayuna. Memorial contributions in Kathleen's memory may be made to St. Helen's RC Church, 1803 Union St,, Niskayuna, NY, 12309.