Barbara Ann Gardner

Born in Cabarrus County on August 14, 1956, she was the daughter of the late Eugene Hampton and Hazel Lambert Hampton.

Barbara graduated from A.L. Brown High School in 1974 and continued her education at UNC-Charlotte, graduating in 1978 and receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting.

Upon graduation, she worked as a Corporate Accountant with Food Lion from 1978 -1995. Then she worked for Gary Morgan CPA’s office from 1995 until 2017, and later retired from Deanna Ford’s CPA having worked from 2017-2021.

In July 1979, Barbara married her sweetheart, Baxter Hartsell Gardner, and shared 45 years together.

Barbara was a member of First Baptist Church – China Grove, where she served on the Finance Committee, served as a Deacon and was involved in the Women’s Ministry.

Some of her hobbies included working outdoors planting and tending to her flowers and gardening. She enjoyed making jewelry, caring for animals and wildlife, and traveling to the beach and mountains. In retirement, Barbara enjoyed working with her husband in restoring antiques and operating their shop in Kannapolis.

During the last few years, Barbara experienced illness and endured many tests and treatments, without ever complaining. She fought a long and courageous fight, finishing her race with grace, dignity and elegance.

Her greatest accomplishments in life are those left to cherish her memory: her loving husband, Baxter Hartsell Gardner; two sons, David Baxter Gardner, of Concord and Gregory William Gardner (Brittany), of Salisbury; her granddaughter, Charlotte Gardner, whom she loved being Grandma to, and many nieces and nephews.

She is further survived by two sisters, Beverly Blackwelder and Lisa Cobb; two brothers, Robert Hampton and Barry Hampton; her canine companion, Bobo and her feline companion, Stanly.

The service to celebrate Barbara’s life will be held Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 5:00 PM at First Baptist Church – China Grove with Rev. Stan Welch officiating.

The family will receive friends, with a light reception, following the service in the Family Life Center of the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church – China Grove Building Fund.

Word of comfort and memories may be shared at www.linn-honeycutt.com.

Linn-Honeycutt Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Gardner family.