Carmelita Edwards Gardner – Loving and beloved wife, mother, sister and friend, slipped into the arms of Jesus surrounded by her family on April 8, 2022. She was born to Mae Edwards and the late Billy Ray Edwards on June 26, 1970 in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Carmelita she was the youngest of two children. She was baptized into Christ at an early age. She was a faithful member of the Hollywood Church of God In Christ before she joined New Beginning Faith Tabernacle Church before her failing health. She will be remembered by those who knew her as a kind, generous and caring person, who loved the Lord. She was always willing to assist anyone in need, no matter what circumstances. She took much pleasure and pride in performing any task. Carmelita was very meticulous in everything she pursed, whether conducting business for her family or serving the patients that she poured her heart into.
A union was formed in 1992 when the two (2) became one. “I am hers and she is mine”. This union between Tony and Carmelita brought forth two (2) strong and beautiful children into this world, Onesiphorus (Niecy) and Tony (T.J).
Carmelita was a graduate of Fair Park High School, the Class of 1988, she continued her education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1996. Still moving forward in education, she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Northwestern State University, in Natchitoches, LA, becoming a Registered Nurse. During her nursing career, she served in many capacities. She was employed as an evening Administrative Nurse Manager, a Medical/Surgical Staff Nurse, and Wound Ostomy Nurse at Oschner LSU Health in Shreveport. She also worked at a Home Health Care Agency and the Caddo Detention Center. Regarding community services, she assisted and helped serve dinners to families in need and the church. Many jewels are bestowed upon her crown.
Carmelita enjoyed spending time with her family, especially the Apple of her eye, (Bubba) Rephaim, grandson. She lovingly adored her granddaughters, Codi and Elle. She spent countless hours being the Sous Chef for her husband in preparing meals that many in the community have enjoyed over the years.
Carmelita leaves to cherish: her life long Love, Tony Gardner; her two (2) children, Onesiphorus and Tony Gardner Jr., grandson, Rephaim Stevenson; granddaughters, Codi Terrell and Elle Smith; her mother, Mary Edward; a loving brother, Allen Hickmon; Mother-in-Law, Julia Gardner; her daughter-in-law, Trichelle Smith Gardner; her “Sisters” from another Mother, Vickie and Net; her defenders and bodyguards, Calvin and Maxie; also an overflowing host of cousins, friends, co-workers, great aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
