Colonie- Regina M. Praisner, 65, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Friday, April 8, 2022. Born in Albany she was the daughter of the late Frank and Claudia Ciarfello.
Gina loved her family and dedicated her life to being a devoted and incredible mother, grandmother and sister.
Gina survived a major brain aneurysm on December 1 , 2016, miraculously, recovering in just a few short months. She never skipped a beat or lost her quick wit or her endearing stubbornness.
Gina's strength, compassion, selflessness, and generosity were unmatched. She never missed a school function and she loved watching her children and grandsons play their sports. She was their biggest (smallest) fan at every baseball game. Gina was always there for her family and friends no matter the time or the place. She was the first to offer to help anyone who needed it and the last who would ask for it. Gina was the best listener and always knew what to say and how to handle things. She was an avid animal lover and saved many over the years giving them a loving home. Gina loved going to the casino, playing poker, and of course trying her luck on many scratch offs and playing her favorite numbers. She loved her large family and cherished her time with them, making sure she always had her famous baked ziti on hand. Gina was lovingly called Gammy by her two grandsons, Brandon and Justin. She was a constant presence in their lives every step of the way, loving them, guiding them and enjoying every day with them. She never missed an opportunity to be with Brandon and Justin. Gina's beauty and grace were beyond compare. Her witty sense of humor, beautiful smile, big brown eyes and loving presence will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She was loved beyond belief. Gina was a true anchor to her entire family. Heaven has truly gained an angel.
Gina is the devoted mother of René Baumann (Brian) of Colonie, Thomas Praisner (Darshane) of Colonie, Shawn Praisner (Dominique Gabriel) of Colonie and their father, Bill Praisner of Schenectady. She is the loving, doting "Gammy" to Brandon and Justin Baumann. Gina will be greatly missed by her siblings, Charlene Luizzi (the late John), Claudia Ramundo, Marygrace "Peachy" Jones (the late Raymond), Anthony Ciarfello Sr. (Maureen, her best friend of 53 years), Francine Ciarfello, Frank Ciarfello Jr., and Jodene Truax (David). Gina will also be remembered forever by her niece Chrissy Molnar who was always like a second daughter to her.
Gina will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins and life-long friends.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 from 4pm-7pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd. Colonie, NY 12205. A funeral service will be held on Thursday at 10:30am at the funeral home with Father Joe Cebula officiating. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery.
To leave a special message for the family online please visit NewComerAlbany.com