Emily J. Wilson

WATERFORD Emily J. Wilson, 99, a long time resident of Waterford, passed away peacefully on March 24th 2025 at the Eddy Heritage Nursing Home in Troy.
Born on April 6th, 1925 in East Poestenkill, she was the daughter of the late Gunhild and Emile Janson. She was predeceased by her husband, Thomas, in 1983 and is survived by her daughters Bonnie (Don) Myers of Latham, Jane (Steve) Warner of Keene, NH and her son James Wilson of Waterford. She had seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
Emily was educated in her early years in a one room schoolhouse before graduating from Troy High School in 1941 at age 16. In 1945, she graduated from Russell Sage College with a degree in Nursing. She met her husband Tom after corresponding as pen pals during World War II and later married in 1948. During that time, she was employed as an RN by the Albany Visiting Nurses Association. Emily left nursing to be an at home mom and raised her three children. She later returned to nursing and was employed by the Troy Visiting Nurses Association until she retired.
Emily was a strong advocate of education. She enjoyed history, reading, gardening, classical music and knitting. She volunteered for the PTA, Saratoga County Youth Advisory Board, her church, and the Waterford Historical Museum. She played a significant role in saving and relocating the Hugh White Homestead which later became the Waterford Historical Museum. She was a founding board member and was actively involved in setting up educational programs and historical bus trips.
Emily was extremely proud of her family, especially her seven beloved grandchildren. She kept close track of their accomplishments and treasured family gatherings. Her independence, determination, and strong values kept her young and active, as well as qualifying her as a member of the "Greatest Generation". She maintained activities such as gardening, driving, mowing and snow blowing well into her later years. She lived a full life and was an inspiration to many.
Many thanks to the Cornerstone Community Church for the many cards and heartfelt messages. The family would also like to thank the staff and residents at the Eddy Heritage Nursing Home for their support and kindness.
A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to the Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center, 2 Museum Lane, Waterford, NY 12188 in Emily's memory.