Mary Lou Gardner

She was born on June 16, 1931 in Manito, IL to Virgil and Lula (Wooding) Woods. She married Joseph Gardner on November 25, 1950 and he preceded her in death on August 2, 2016 in Bartonville. Also preceding her in death were her parents; one son, Joseph Gardner Jr; five brothers, Jim, Bill, Wayne, Ivan, and Arthur Woods; one grandson, Garry "Buddy" Gardner Jr; and a great-grandson Tyler.

Surviving are her two children, Garry (Linda) Gardner of Bartonville and Nancy Melton of Pekin; four grandchildren, Tonya (Aaron) Gigous of Germantown Hills, Andy (Amy) Melton of Mapleton, Lucinda (Dustyn) Elliott of Arizona, and Tiffany (Ryan) Gazza of Edwards; seven great-grandchildren, Skyler, Kaitlyn, Graham, Chloe, Caleb, Tessa, and Carson; two great-great grandchildren, Niarey and Zayla; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary worked for Spiegel Catalog for many years and in the Bartonville School Cafeteria before retiring. She enjoyed bowling and softball when she was younger and also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and upholstering. Mary enjoyed spending time with her family and was known for her amazing pies.

A funeral service will be at 11 am on Friday, February 28, 2025 with visitation one hour prior to the service at the Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Burial will follow at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Carolyn and Matt Beal, and to Amanda Miklavcic who referred to Mary Lou as Grandma.

Memorial contribution can be made to Autism Speaks or American Cancer Society. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.Davison-Fulton-Bartonvillechapel.com.