Obituary of Elinor M. Gardner

Elinor Marie Gardner, 90, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on Sunday, December 28, 2025, reuniting with her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” Gardner, just one day after their 68th wedding anniversary.

Born on April 1, 1935, in Troy, New York, to the late Harold and Mae (Ryan) Cone, Elinor spent most of her life in her hometown, where she built a life rooted in family, compassion, and service to others. She and her husband, Bob, settled in Troy and shared a devoted marriage spanning over six decades, raising three daughters who were the center of their world.

Elinor dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a nurse. She began her career at Leonard Hospital, then worked alongside Dr. Mahendra Ganjhu until her retirement. Known for her skill, dedication, and endless compassion, Elinor was truly a nurse in every sense of the word—both professionally and personally. To her grandchildren, Nanny’s house was famously home to “the sick couch,” where countless sick days were spent under her loving care. To them, she was simply the best nurse of all.

Elinor was an extraordinary mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She never missed a game, recital, or milestone—often traveling hours to ensure she was there. Her unwavering support was a constant in their lives.

She had a fierce and lifelong love for animals. Over the years, she rescued and cared for hundreds of animals—big and small, sick or healthy—never turning away a creature in need. She was passionately against animal cruelty and never hesitated to advocate for those who could not speak for themselves. Elinor instilled this love, respect, and compassion for animals in her family, creating a legacy that will live on for generations. Many animals are surely waiting to greet Elinor and thank her for a lifetime of kindness.

Elinor also cherished camping with her husband, family, and friends, summer bonfires, long nights filled with laughter, and playing cards with her friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Elinor was predeceased by her siblings, Dorothy Carroll, Thomas Cone, and Jackie Cone.

She is survived by her daughters, Donna DeSimone (Mike), Deborah Fane (Greg), and Lori Fane (Kent); her grandchildren, Michael DeSimone (Elizabeth), Dana DeSimone (Tyler Place), Karly Van Dresar (Dylan), Samantha Mahoney (Pat), Gregory Fane (Heather), Scott Fane (Karen), Brooke Fane (Jim Perniciaro), Zachary Fane (Sarah), Cody Fane, Jared Fane (Maria), and Luke Fane (Joelean); her sister-in-law, June Amyot; and her beloved cat, Pumpkin. She is also survived by nine great-grandchildren: Patrick, Ryan, and Natalie Mahoney; Colton, Bailey, Olivia, Thomas, and Charlotte Fane; and Solenne DeSimone, with two more on the way.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Elinor’s caregivers for their loving and compassionate care in recent years.

Family and friends are invited to attend services on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Transfiguration Parish (formerly St. Bonaventure’s Church in Speigletown) 50 Hillview Dr., Troy, NY 12182. Calling hours will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., immediately followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place afterward at St. John’s Cemetery in Troy.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness toward animals and donations to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in honor of Elinor’s lifelong devotion to those without a voice. Donations to the Alzheimer’s Association are also welcomed in memory of her husband, Bob.

Please feel free to view the Memorial Video (please check back later as it is not yet completed) or offer your on-line Condolences by using those tabs on this page.