Ilion Roberta May Danforth, 67 of 78 W. North St. in Ilion, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday August 16, 2009 at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center. Roberta was born on December 9, 1941 in Ilion, the daughter of the late Robert B. and Pearl N. (McWilliams) Kirkland. She was a 1960 graduate of Ilion High School. She formerly was employed at Mohawk Valley General Hospital. Most recently she was a client aid with the H.A.R.C., where she was dedicated to her clients and was rewarded daily through their interactions. She retired in 2005. Roberta was a loving mother, aunt, and grandmother. She was devoted to her family and friends and was always there in times of need to lend a hand. She made many sacrifices to provide for her children and to give them a better life. She was adored by her grandchildren and she took great joy in watching them grow and hearing the funny things they said. Roberta's favorite time of day was the early morning where she was often found in her back yard enjoying a cup of coffee, listening to the birds, and waiting for the sun to rise. She loved gardening, decorating, and wandering around garage sales in hopes of finding that special item she's been searching for. Roberta was strong and determined. Her family and friends were very proud of her most recent achievement of quitting smoking after 50 years. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Roberta is survived by a son Robert and his wife Doreen of Schodack Landing, NY. Two daughters Sheila and her husband Daniel Brindisi of Whitesboro, and Debra and her husband Kelly Knowlton of Ilion. Her grandchildren Alec and Kaley Brindisi and Courtney and Kyle Danforth. She also leaves a brother in law Glenn and his wife Bonnie Danforth of Ilion, two sister in laws Shelley Morris of Ilion and Sandy Ebner of Rockaway NJ. An aunt Mary McWilliams of Mexico, NY, and a brother in law Michael Doyle of Hammondsport, NY. As well as several nieces and nephews. Roberta also leaves her many friends including her special friends Kay Balch of Ilion and Barb Goodson of Mohawk. Roberta was pre deceased by her sister Janet Kirkland, her uncle Francis McWilliams and her sister in law Jana Doyle. Funeral services for Roberta will be held on Wednesday August 19, 2009 at 10:30 am at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc. 100 Otsego St. in Ilion, Rev. Victor McKusick will officiate. Interment will follow in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Friends may call on Tuesday August 18, 2009 from 5-8 pm at the funeral home. Roberta's family wish to thank the Ilion Ambulance and the staff at St. Elizabeth's for the care given her. Memorial donations may be made to the Ilion Ambulance, envelops are available at the funeral home. On line condolences may be left by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com.