Mary Ellen Gardner

Mary Ellen (Hamilton) Gardner, 88, of Marathon (Freetown), NY, passed away on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, at the Crown Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Cortland, NY.

Mrs. Gardner was born in Lisle, NY, on December 29, 1930, the daughter of the late Blenford and Hazel Hilliard.  A longtime resident, she was a member of the Marathon United Methodist Church.  She was raised by her aunt and uncle, Cecil and Louis Peck, after her parents passed away at an early age.  In her lifetime, she worked at Smith-Corona, Tops Market, Cortland Savings Bank, Green Thumb, and always took care of her family.  She was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose and the Order of the Eastern Star.

She is survived by her children, William (Cindy) Gardner of TX, Scott (Felicia Maytas) Gardner of Freetown, and Louann (Timothy Hicks) Darling of TX.  She also leaves behind a son-in-law, James Leonard of Pitcher; a brother, Floyd (Charlene) Hamilton of Moravia; several grandchildren, including her special granddaughter and caregiver, Sarah Chilson of Marathon; a cousin, Morris Peck of Groton; and several great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her former husband, Donald Gardner; sons, Charles and Donald Gardner; and a daughter, Nanette Leonard.

There will be no immediate calling hours or funeral service.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date and time.  Expressions of sympathy in memory of Mrs. Gardner may be directed to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 in honor of Nanette Leonard and Charlie Gardner or to Mooseheart by visiting www.mooseheart.org.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff of Crown Park for their care and support during this difficult time.