In Loving Memory of Sharon Lee Gardner

Obituary

Sharon Lee Gardner was called home to the Lord on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the age of 80. A longtime resident of Bridgeport, NY—and previously of Liverpool, NY, and St. Petersburg, FL—she was born in Waterville, NY, on July 19, 1945, to Kenneth Gardner and Jane Hilsinger.

A devoted daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt, Sharon’s greatest joy was her family. She poured herself into supporting her children and delighting in her grandchildren—celebrating their milestones, encouraging their gifts, and surrounding them with steadfast love. To her grandchildren, she was lovingly known as “Nana.” Her faith and gentle spirit shone through everything she did.

Sharon expressed her God-given creativity through art, especially acrylic on canvas. With brush and canvas she captured dreams, memories, and the quiet beauty of everyday life—keepsakes her family will cherish for generations. Professionally, she served for many years at Upstate Medical, working with Dr. Turk and Dr. Weber, where her kindness and diligence blessed colleagues and patients alike. Sharon also served her community as a former member of the Liverpool Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and as a member of the department’s EMS team, living out her calling to help others with courage and compassion.

Her love extended tenderly to her pets. She is reunited with her dearly loved companions Al, Mollie, and Tanner, and leaves behind her precious Gracie.

Sharon was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Judith Smith, and Judith’s husband, Kenneth Smith; and her beloved nephews, Scott LaMunion and Timothy Smith.

She is survived by her brother, Kenneth (Betsy), and her sister, Pamela LaMunion (Donald); by her children, Daniel Doing, Deborah Flynn (Ed), and David Doing (Stacey); and by her cherished grandchildren: Maria Araujo (Matt), Todd Doing (Janel), Emily Flynn, Michael Flynn, Tyler Doing, Zach Doing, Brianna Doing, and Eric Doing. She is also survived by her many wonderful nieces and nephews—Michael Gardner, Mark Gardner, Christine Lennington, Tracy Finen, Dennis LaMunion, Tina Eisenhut, Donald LaMunion, and David Smith—by her beloved great-grandchildren, and by a large extended family whom she loved dearly.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Valentino of Upstate Medical and to the remarkable caregivers of Upstate University Hospital’s ICU, Floor 8, for their compassion, skill, and true professionalism.

In keeping with her generous spirit, Sharon chose to donate her body to Upstate Medical University for the education of future medical professionals. Her remains will be cremated and spread alongside her parents and sibling at Waterville Cemetery at a future date to be determined.

We grieve her absence, yet we rejoice in the blessed hope that she rests safely in the arms of our Savior and is reunited with those who have gone before her. Until we see you again, Mom and Nana.

If you wish to honor Sharon’s memory, please consider a contribution to Upstate Medical University in her name.