Verna Gardner Farmer

Verna Gardner Farmer, 73, of Houston, Texas, passed away on May 17, 2026. Born on January 28, 1953, in Lakeland, Florida, to Raymond and Elizabeth Gardner, Verna spent her childhood on her family’s farm in New Lebanon, Ohio, before eventually settling in Tallahassee, Florida, where she spent the majority of her adult life. She was a woman whose life was defined by warmth, generosity, and an abiding love for the people around her.

Verna often laughed that she was born a Gardner but ended up being a Farmer, a fitting reflection of the joy and humor she brought to every room she entered. She built a dedicated career in an administrative role with the State of Florida’s Department of Insurance, retiring after more than 30 years of committed service. In a testament to her drive and determination, Verna pursued her education as an adult learner while working full-time, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida State University, an achievement that spoke volumes about her character.

She was a devoted wife to her late husband, David Farmer, whom she married in 2008. Together they shared a deep love of fishing and travel, adventures she cherished and spoke of often. Verna also treasured her “sissy” time with her sister Linda. The two shared many beloved trips to Cedar Key and traveled all over the country together, always exploring new places and filling the miles with laughter. After David’s passing in 2018, Verna continued to find joy in her grandchildren, her garden, and the birds that visited her yard. She had a gift for friendship, and her caring spirit and easy smile had a way of brightening even a stranger’s day.

In her final years, Verna faced Lewy body dementia with the same quiet strength she brought to everything in life. She is remembered not for what the disease took, but for the love, laughter, and light she gave so freely throughout her 73 years.

Verna is survived by her son, Jason Linton, and his wife, Alyssa Linton, of Houston, Texas; her stepson, Tony Farmer, of Tennessee; her beloved grandchildren, Brady and Parker Linton; and her sister, Linda Lanier, and her husband, Larry Lanier, of Plant City, Florida, along with their children, Ginger and Raymond. She was preceded in death by her husband, David Farmer; her parents, Raymond and Elizabeth Gardner; and her brother, Ronald Gardner.

A service celebrating Verna’s life will be held in Tallahassee, Florida, with details to be announced at a future date.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Verna’s dear friend, Kathy Trapp, whose love and unwavering support were a true gift during Verna’s illness. From helping coordinate Verna’s move from Tallahassee to Houston, to walking alongside the family through so many difficult moments, Kathy’s kindness and guidance meant more than words can express.