Obituary of Janet B. Gardner

Janet Gilbert Gardner, age 83, passed away at her home on Townsend Road in Niskayuna, NY on Sunday, February 8th with her family by her side. She was born in Schenectady, NY on March 17, 1931 and lived in her family home in Niskyuna throughout three generations. She was the daughter of the late Dr. Judson B. Gilbert and Jessie M. Gilbert of Schenectady. Janet graduated from Van Antwerp Elementary School in 1946, St Agnes School in Albany in 1949, Maryland College for Women in Lutherville, MD 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 AMC. She held that position for twelve years. As an active participant in the Albany Medical Center's School of Nursing Alumni Association, Janet was instrumental in preserving a visual history of the school of nursing. 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. Janet also enjoyed gardening and belonged to the Garden Club of Schenectady. A member of the First Reformed Church in Schenectady, Janet 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. Janet was known for her devotion and loyalty to a vast network of friends and will be deeply missed. Janet is survived by her husband of 53 years, Richard D. Gardner and sons Jeffrey (Beth) Gardner, grandchildren Jennifer and Andrew of Water Mill, NY and James (Ruth) Gardner, granddaughters Madison and Taylor of Seattle, WA.. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21st at 11:00 a.m. at the First Reformed Church in Schenectady. Donations may be given in Janet's memory to the First Reformed Church of Schenectady, 8 N. Church St. Schenectady, NY 12305; The First Presbyterian Church, 2 S. Main St. Southampton, NY 11968 or the Nursing Foundation, 2113 Western Ave. Albany, NY 12084.