TROY -- Gladys B. Chestara, 92, died peacefully on Friday, November 12, 2021 at the Van Rensselaer Manor, surrounded by loving family. Gladys was predeceased by her mother, Mary Streeter; husband, John A. Chestara; and grandson, Jonathon Chestara. She is survived by her children, Catherine M. Chestara, Barbara A. Chestara (the late Donald J. Piper, Jr.) and John D. Chestara; her granddaughter Christina Kerr (Eric) and great-grandchildren Alana and Aiden Kerr; and many nieces and nephews. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Gladys worked at the Lipton Tea Company in Manhattan until leaving to marry and start a family. Though the family traveled the world, even living in Australia for two years, Gladys was happiest here in the Capital Region. She was a true animal lover with a soft spot for rescuing strays, as demonstrated by the many pets she had throughout the years. Gladys loved to dance (she was a fabulous dancer!) and swim, crocheted beautifully, and enjoyed amusement parks, puzzles, birdwatching and reading suspense novels. But most of all, she loved her family and treasured time together. Gladys will be deeply missed but her spirit is free to dance again. The family will be holding a private remembrance at a later time. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital. To leave a special message for the family, please visit: TheRiverviewFuneralHome.com