Carole R. Gaylord Maddalla

Carole Ruth Gaylord Maddalla passed peacefully on Monday July 8th, surrounded and held by her family after a courageous battle with leukemia.

Raised in Nassau by her parents the late Ruth and Earl Gaylord, Carole would fondly reflect and share many of her experiences of her childhood years. She was the apple of her parents’ eyes and grew up in a loving home that instilled in her the importance of helping others and treating everyone with kindness.

Growing up, she had an array of animals that she tended to including goats, chickens, a St. Bernard and a pet pig. She would often be seen galloping about on her horse Tarzan, riding the family property and surrounding area. These early years helped foster her lifelong relationship and rescue efforts on behalf of animals. She imparted these values to her children and would happily volunteer to “pet-sit” furry and feathered family members whenever needed.

A graduate of Columbia High School, she spent much of her time living between Nassau and their home in DeLand, Florida. She would recall many fond memories of her childhood, particularly Nassau, where she learned to drive a manual truck in the fields.

Affectionately referred to as Nona, by many of her grandchildren and those close to her, she was known to show up and lend a helping hand wherever one was needed. She would arrive with homemade cake and goulash along with warmth and a smile. Carole will be remembered as one who had a gentle demeanor and quiet strength, who was passionate about putting others first and did so with a loving heart.

All who encountered Carole were greeted with a warm smile, tenderness, and a joke or two. She was an advocate for the underdog and would provide warm coats, clothing, food, and other items to those in her community who she saw in need. She had a wonderful spirit and was cherished beyond measure by those whose path she crossed. Carole unconditionally loved her family and touched the lives of many; she will be forever missed.

Carole was a long-time trusted employee of the New York State Senate and was working most recently as the Assistant Director of Operations for Senator George Borrello. She was an invaluable employee who was relied upon to make sure that the office was run smoothly, and vital tasks were executed in an efficient, timely manner. Carole was well-liked and respected by all in her various capacities over the last 32+ years. She had a great fondness for her job, colleagues, and those she worked with and maintained numerous friendships.

She was particularly proud to be called Nona and could be seen in the bleachers and on the sidelines at games in the area and beyond during softball season. In fact, many of the girls would come to Nona’s house requesting her goulash and cake.

Carole loved gardening, baking, bowling, playing cards, and cheering on her grandchildren in whatever sport or activity they chose. She loved spending time with her family, whom she was

most proud of. She had a zest for life and made the best of every situation that came her way. She always looked at the world around her with compassion and positivity.

Carole is survived by her long-time partner Joseph Margiasso and her children Tammy (Frank), Paul (Nina), John (Marcia). She is Nona and grandmother to John, Ashley, Katarina, Ava, Paul, and Nina along with eight great-grandchildren. She is survived by numerous stepchildren, step grandchildren and extended family members.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 12th from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Daniel Keenan Funeral Home, 490 Delaware Avenue in Albany with a funeral service held on Saturday July 13th at 10:00 a.m.

Donations in her memory can be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, Attn: Donations 3 Oakland Avenue, Menands, NY 12204 or online at https://mohawkhumane.org/donate .

Condolences can be posted at danielkeenanfuneralhome.com.