She was born on August 18, 1930 in Fairfield, Ohio to Edwin W. Gardner and Thelma C. Frazier Gardner.
Mary Lou was a 1948 graduate of Reelsville High School.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Edwin Gardner and Russell Gardner; and her sisters, Thelma Jean Cox and Eloise Neier.
Surviving are her husband, William M. “Bill” James; a son, Melvin Bullerdick; a daughter, Marcia Tyler; two step children, Chris James, and Jennifer Scisney and husband Michael; a brother, William Gardner; and several grandchildren.
Mary Lou enjoyed planting flowers, watching Hummingbirds, gardening, puzzles, reading books, cooking, and genealogy.
Most of all she and Bill enjoyed their time together, dancing, Dixieland music, Jazz Festivals, cruises, and trips to Brown County in the fall. Mary Lou also enjoyed painting, volunteering at I.H.S., antique stores, walking and swimming.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at Bittles and Hurt Funeral Home, from 2 PM until 3:30 PM, with a service starting at 3:30 PM.
