Marcia Gardiner

6/28/1928 - 10/16/2025

Santa Rosa, Calif. - Marcia Gardiner, born in Boston, Mass., June 28, 1928, passed away peacefully Oct. 16, 2025, in Santa Rosa, Calif.

Marcia grew up in Portland, Maine, graduated from Deering High School, and earned a scholarship to Radcliffe College, where she graduated with distinction. She went on to receive her master's degree in Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy from The Fletcher School at Tufts University.

In the early 1950s, Marcia was among the first women to serve at the Central Intelligence Agency, marking the beginning of a life devoted to intellect, service, and curiosity about the wider world. Later, she became the Financial Aid Director at Connecticut College, where she dedicated many years to helping students achieve their educational goals - a reflection of her lifelong belief in the power of learning and opportunity.

Marcia was first married to Hartley Pond, and later to Henry Gardiner, both of whom predeceased her. She was also predeceased by her son Calvin Pond; her sister Anne Lambert; and her stepson Henry Gardiner IV.

She is survived by her son Hartley (Anne) Pond of Sebastopol, Calif.; grandchildren: Katherine (Henry Johnson) Pond, Emma Pond, Tom Gardiner and Skye Gardiner; great-grandson Hartley Johnson; and her stepsons, Alan (Sue) Gardiner, Lee (Kathleen) Gardiner and Scott Gardiner; and niece Elizabeth Berry DiMauro.

Marcia lived in New London, Waterford, and Mystic. A world traveler and champion of education and community service, Marcia lived with curiosity, courage, and grace. Her legacy continues through her family, her students, and the many lives she touched.

Services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a scholarship fund or educational charity of your choice in her memory.