Kathleen Jean Cusano

Dateline: Clifton Park, NY
Kathleen Jean Cusano, age 71, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 31, 1954, in Niskayuna, NY, she was the daughter of the late Charles "Chuck" and Elaine (Dingman) Gitsham.
Kathy grew up in Scotia-Glenville, where she graduated from Scotia-Glenville High School in 1972. As a student, she was active and driven, serving as President of the Future Business Leaders of America - a fitting preview of her lifelong dedication to excellence and organization.
Shortly after graduation, Kathy began what would become a 41-year career as an administrative assistant with General Electric Co. in Schenectady. Her professionalism, kindness, and steady presence made her a beloved colleague and friend to many throughout the years.
On July 23rd, 1977, Kathy married the love of her life, Joseph C. Cusano, and together they shared an enduring partnership built on love, laughter, and family. The two enjoyed countless adventures together, including drives in their Mustang with Kathy at her post as "co-pilot," and their playful kitchen banter that kept family and friends entertained.
Family was truly the heart of Kathy's world. She welcomed her children's friends as her own, found joy in planning special moments with her grandchildren, and created a home that was always full of warmth, laughter, and seasonal beauty. Her decorations were legendary and her family gatherings - extraordinary. And after the 2018 Super Bowl win, she proudly became one of the biggest Philadelphia Eagles fans around - cheering them on with her trademark enthusiasm.
A woman of creativity and grace, Kathy loved painting ceramics, gardening, and filling her world with flowers - especially in her favorite color, purple. Her adored dog, Bella, was always by her side, offering companionship and love that brought her great comfort and joy.
As her illness progressed, she embraced her new role as the family's "director and supervisor," ensuring that the people she loved continued to feel guided, supported, and deeply connected. Kathy will be remembered for her sweet and gentle spirit, her generosity of heart, and her unwavering devotion to her family - the true masterpiece of her beautiful life.
She was the beloved wife of Joseph C. Cusano; loving mother of Steven (Lisa) Cusano and Joseph C. (Cynthia) Cusano, Jr.; dearest grandmother of Grace, AbbyClaire, Damon and Carmine; sister of Charles "Chuck" Jr. (fiancé, Diana Elmore) Gitsham.
Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Road, Ballston Lake, NY 12019.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the funeral home.
Interment will follow at 1:00 PM in Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY.
Memorial contributions may be made to National MS Society, 421 New Karner Road Albany, NY 12205.