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Ethel Doris Girard, 82, passed away peacefully Tuesday afternoon, November 3, at Mount Loretto Nursing Home in Amsterdam, N.Y. She was born October 29, 1927, in Johnstown, N.Y., the daughter of the late Maude (Hisert) and Raymond Case.

She was predeceased by: her husband, Ovid Lawrence Girard, on January 9, 1989.

Mrs. Girard graduated from Johnstown High School in 1942. Before becoming a dedicated homemaker, she worked in Gloversville's slipper and glove factories and also briefly for the local phone company.

She was predeceased by: seven brothers and two sisters, Donald Case, Harold Case, Jack Case, Kenneth Case, Richard Case, Robert Case, Vernon M. Case, Arlene (Case) LaRowe, and Beverly (Case) Ambrosino. She was also predeceased by a beloved granddaughter, Christa Lynn Girard.

She is survived by a family who loves her dearly: two sons, August D. Girard of Stone Ridge, N.Y. and Peter L. Girard of Lake Luzerne, N.Y.; and a daughter, Karen M. (Girard) Edwards of Gloversville. She is also survived by: a brother, Lawrence "Larry" Case of Johnstown, N.Y.; a daughter-in-law, Sandra J. (Sleezer) Girard, the wife of her son, August; and five grandchildren, David M. Girard of Stone Ridge, N.Y., Emily (Girard) Gregory of Dacula, Ga., Michael S. Girard of Kingston, N.Y., Amy (Girard) Barfield of Woodbridge, Va., and Kelly (Girard) Chmet of New York, N.Y.; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Also of special consideration is Trindalynn Velie of Gloversville, to whom which Mrs. Girard was known as her loving "Mema."

Despite living with multiple sclerosis and losing her sight early in her adult life, Mrs. Girard worked harder, persevered life's storms stronger, and forged an independent, full life with a quiet strength admired by many.

Mrs. Girard was best known for her fresh baked bread, her beautiful crocheted quilts, and her legendary fruit salad, a recipe passed down from her mother. She also loved to garden, cook, swim and travel. She especially enjoyed family celebrations featuring many of her delicious homemade dishes and being surrounded by good conversation and laughter. She was truly a one-of-a-kind, courageous, spirited woman who will be deeply missed.

Friends and family may call on Saturday, November 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Kobuskie-Konik Funeral Home, 51 Fremont St., Gloversville, and are invited to attend the funeral service immediately following at 3 p.m. Upon completion of the funeral, an interment ceremony will take place at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Gloversville. Contributions may be made in her memory to the Upstate New York Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 1650 South Avenue, Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14620. Please visit the family online guestbook at www.brbsfuneral.com.