Judith "Judy" Gardiner

1937 - 2021

Mystic - Judith "Judy" Adams Gardiner died May 23, 2021. She was born June 21, 1937, to Elizabeth Estelle Eaton (d. 1993) and James Wyman Adams (d. 1969) of Needham, and sister to Sally Adams Palmer Sholler (d. 2009). She married Robert Ward Gardiner (d. 2003) and Harry Connor (d. 2008). She leaves behind her loving and devoted sons, David W. Gardiner (Terri Gerber) and Edward (Tracey) C. Gardiner; grandchildren: Elena (Channing) Poole, John (Sarah), Elizabeth (Alex Salazar), Ward, Colson and Erin Gardiner; nieces, nephews, extended family and many dear friends.

She graduated from Needham High School, Class of 1955, the University of Maine at Orono in 1959, with a BA degree. She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Judy was an Old Saybrook Middle School teacher, retired. "Outstanding Poise" captioned Judy's high school yearbook picture. She was the editor-in-chief, advocate editor, a majorette and participant in many other activities. Judy had an exceptional ability not only to make friends, but to maintain friendships throughout her lifetime. Her bright, friendly, compassionate and kind outlook comforted others. Judy drew comfort from laughter with loved ones, the familiarity of her surroundings, and enjoying music, attending operas, playing the piano and singing alto in choir. She volunteered at Middlesex Hospice and rooted herself in the loving care and service to her faith community as a deacon on the parish care team. Navigating coastal waters while sailing with Bob appealed to her attention to detail. She found love again with Harry. She played bridge, traveled, walked regularly near The Preserve and basked in warm days at the beach, especially enjoying swims in salty, outer Cape Cod Bay. She looked back on and forward to holidays, reunions with classmates and special occasions. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her precious family and friends.

Judy opened another new chapter, when she moved from Old Saybrook to Mystic at StoneRidge. Many thanks to all her devoted caregivers who helped keep her comfortable during the last months of her life. "Smooth sailing, 'no wake zone' now, Mom."

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 19, at First Church of Christ in Saybrook (Congregational), 366 Main Street, Old Saybrook, Ct. 06475. Seating may be limited. The service also will be available online: https://firstchurchsaybrook.org. Donations may be made to: First Church of Christ in Saybrook (memo: Judy Gardiner Memorial c/o The Legacy Fund).