Constance "Connie"M. Christmas

Colonie- Constance "Connie" M. Christmas passed away with her family by her side on August 14, 2015 at the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany. She was 83 years old.
The daughter of the late Steven and Mary (Coman) Christmas, she was born on May 7, 1932 in Youngstown, Ohio. She graduated high school in 1950. She then entered the US Army where she served her country for two years as a cryptographer in the Pentagon. In 1952 she appeared on the commemorative postage stamp "Women in the Armed Forces." After her service, she settled in Albany where she raised five boys. She had a variety of careers including modeling, retail, health club instructor, and she also appeared in European Health Spa commercials. Later in life she earned her secretarial certification and worked as a legal secretary for various law firms in the Capital District.
She was an avid reader and had a great love for classical music and opera. Connie was well known for her sewing skills and would make clothes for everyone she knew. She volunteered her time for WHMT where she received the Frank C. Steiner Volunteer Recognition Award.
Connie had a flair for style and was always dressed for the occasion. She enjoyed cooking and hosting dinner parties for her friends.
She is survived by her sons: Steven (Casimira), Joseph, Daniel and Nicholas Ginardi; her cherished grandson Vincent Ginardi.
In addition to her parents, Connie was predeceased by her son Vincent Ginardi and her sister Jacqueline Christmas.
The family would like to thank the staff of the ICU and the 8th floor at the Stratton VA Medical Center for their compassionate and loving care.
Memorial visitation will be held from 10 am to 12:30 pm on Tuesday, August 18 at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. Burial with military honors will follow in Our Lady of Angles Cemetery, Colonie.
Memorial donations may be made in Connie's name to Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave, Albany, NY 12204.