Kristina M. Gardner

Kristina “Krissy” (Snyder) Gardner, 53, of Evendale, Ohio, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, September 29, 2025, in Cincinnati. In 2022, she was treated for her second breast cancer. Tests in 2024 revealed this cancer had metastasized and, in spite of her relentless bravery and positivity, it evaded all treatment.

Born on June 23, 1972, Krissy grew up in Alfred, New York, later living in Troy, NY, before making her home in the Cincinnati area. She spent her career helping others, first as an educator caring deeply for all of her students and most recently as a Team Leader at Fidelity Investments.

Those who knew Krissy will never forget her amazing laugh, her quick wit, and her gift for making others feel supported and loved. She was the loudest cheerleader in the room and the first to remind you that she believed in you. She adored The Golden Girls—often quoting Blanche, Dorothy, Sophia, or Rose at just the right moment. She also had a soft spot for every cat that came into her home, each with enough nicknames to fill a spreadsheet.

Krissy is survived by her beloved son, Nolan Gardner; her mother, Sheila Snyder; her brother, Robert N. Snyder and his wife, Maria; her niece, Maggie Snyder; her nephew, Jack Snyder; her former husband, Matt Gardner and his husband, Steven Cogorno; and several cousins and other extended family members. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert L. Snyder, and her grandparents, Floyd and Dorothy Nolan, and George and Dorothy Snyder.

A celebration of life will occur in Cincinnati on November 30. Details will be published on Facebook and at kristina.gardnernetwork.com.

Krissy often quoted her adored father, who said, “Cancer is becoming a treatable disease, and will be curable in your lifetime.” But that can’t happen without research. Donations in her memory can be made to the UC Cancer Center.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion that her family and friends—indeed all who knew her—will treasure always.