Deborah Ann (Gillson) Gardner, 69, of Dunkirk passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026. Born on July 20, 1957, she was the wife of the late Joseph Gardner and daughter of the late Jo Ann (Tizard) Heckathorn and Richard Gillson.
A graduate of Dunkirk High School, Deborah dedicated many years of service to the Western New York Developmental Disabilities Services Office. Outside of her career, Deborah found great joy in crocheting, sewing, reading, and watching true crime programs. Her happiest moments were often spent surrounded by her family, especially while cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events.
Deborah is survived by her children, Jude (Nicole) Gardner, Pete Kalfas, Jillian Messere and Jamie Kinney; grandchildren, Jude (Malia) Gardner, Jr., Dakota (Sarah) Gardner, Richie, Dalton, Emily, Ryan and Bella; and great-grandchildren Dakota Gardner, Jr., Adaiya, Leighton, Declan and Evelyn.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, August 7 at 11:00 AM at Forest Hill Cemetery in Fredonia. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following at the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club, 1 North Mullet Street in Dunkirk.
Arrangements are by R. Michael Mackowiak III, R. Mackowiak Funeral Home, Inc., 56 East Doughty Street in Dunkirk. Share condolences at www.rmackowiak.com.
