Leatha Rilla Gardner

Leatha Rilla Gardner, 61, of Mansfield, passed away Friday afternoon, January 27, 2017, at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She was born November 11, 1955, in Crestline, Ohio, to William Kelly and Bunea Fuqua Kelly.

Leatha treasured her family and was the life of her family cracking her many jokes at every opportunity. She loved to cook chicken and barbecue was her favorite way to prepare it. A wonderful mother, grandmother, daughter, aunt and friend, she leaves behind wonderful memories for everyone to enjoy. Leatha's grandchildren were the light of her life.

She is survived by her mother, Bunea Vista Fuqua now known by her Muslim name, Ar-Razzaaq H. Shakir; husband, Donnie Rockefeller Gardner; two children, Shana Kelly of Columbus and George Kelly (Latoya Culliver) of Mansfield; and five grandchildren, Ebony, Ivory and Erin Sanderfer, Jayden and Jakarion Kelly. Leatha is also survived by five siblings, Anne Edwards of St. Louis, MO, Priscilla Jefferson, Patrick Kelly, Ardis Kelly and Nonia Jackson, all of Mansfield; special cousin, Brenda Oden of Mansfield; a host of special nieces and nephews; and special friend, Bill Moon of Shelby.

Leatha was preceded in death by her father, William Kelly; three brothers, Abubekr B. Kelly, Jerry Kelly and William Kelly Jr.; and best friend, Sandy Benjamin.

The family will receive friends Monday, February 6, 2017, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. in the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. The funeral service conducted by Minister Steve Taylor will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will proceed to Mansfield Cemetery.