Elinor Marie Gardner, a cherished figure in her community and a dedicated nurse, passed away peacefully at her home on December 28, 2025, just one day after celebrating her 68th wedding anniversary with her husband, Robert ‘Bob’ Gardner. She was 90 years old. Born on April 1, 1935, in Troy, New York, Elinor’s life was characterized by a profound commitment to family, compassion, and service to others.
Elinor spent the majority of her life in Troy, where she and Bob built a loving home and raised three daughters, who were the center of their universe. Their marriage, spanning over six decades, exemplified devotion and partnership. Elinor dedicated her professional life to nursing, beginning her career at Leonard Hospital. She later worked alongside Dr. Mahendra Ganjhu until her retirement, known for her exceptional skill and unwavering compassion.
To her grandchildren, Elinor was affectionately known as “Nanny,” and her home was a refuge where many sick days were spent on ‘the sick couch,’ under her attentive care. She was not only a nurse professionally but also embodied the nurturing spirit in her personal life, earning the title of the best nurse in the eyes of her family.
Legacy of Love and Compassion
Elinor’s influence extended beyond her immediate family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who never missed important events in her family’s lives, often traveling long distances to support her loved ones. Her fierce support and encouragement created lasting memories and a strong family bond.
A lifelong animal lover, Elinor dedicated herself to rescuing and caring for countless animals, advocating against cruelty and instilling a deep respect for all creatures in her family. Her passion for animal welfare inspired her loved ones to continue her legacy of kindness. Many animals are undoubtedly waiting to greet Elinor, grateful for her years of compassion.
Elinor also cherished the outdoors, enjoying camping trips with family and friends, summer bonfires, and evenings filled with laughter and card games. She created joyful experiences that her family will remember fondly.
Elinor is survived by her daughters, Donna DeSimone (Mike), Deborah Fane (Greg), and Lori Fane (Kent); and her grandchildren, including Michael DeSimone (Elizabeth), Dana DeSimone (Tyler Place), and many others. She leaves behind nine great-grandchildren and her beloved cat, Pumpkin. She was predeceased by her husband, her parents, and her siblings, Dorothy Carroll, Thomas Cone, and Jackie Cone.
Memorial Services and Donations
The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to Elinor’s caregivers for their compassionate support in her later years. Friends and family are invited to gather for services on January 2, 2026, at Transfiguration Parish, formerly known as St. Bonaventure’s Church, located at 50 Hillview Drive, Troy, NY 12182. Calling hours will be held from 09:30 to 11:00, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00. Interment will take place at St. John’s Cemetery in Troy.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness towards animals and donations to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, honoring Elinor’s lifelong dedication to animal welfare. Contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association are also welcomed in memory of her husband, Bob.
Elinor’s legacy of love, compassion, and service will continue to resonate in the hearts of those she touched throughout her remarkable life.
