Marilyn Gardner

Marilyn was born on July 17, 1945 in New Orleans, LA.

Marilyn graduated from Dominican High School in New Orleans. She received her B.A. degree from LSU in 1967. While at LSU, she met her husband of 55 years, Dr. Joseph Gardner. She valued education, and later in life received a Masters degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Marilyn worked as a GED instructor and Learning Lab Coordinator at Pearl River Community College. She retired from PRCC after 20 years of service.

She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Poplarville, MS. There she served as Eucharistic Minister as well as a Catechism teacher. She was a founding member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, where she volunteered for many years.

Marilyn found joy in serving others. She was a Cub Scout Den Mother, a member of the Poplarville Women’s Club, and was awarded a Life Membership to the Poplarville PTA by the Mississippi Congress of Parents and Teachers. She was a fixture at the Blueberry Jubilee 5K, as coordinator of the refreshment station.

She was an avid crafter and jewelry maker. She crocheted blankets and stuffed animals as gifts for her grandchildren, who lovingly called her Mem. Marilyn adored animals, especially her numerous Boxer dogs. She spent time working in the yard and enjoyed searching for hidden Geocaches.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Dr. Joseph Gardner; her son, Dr. Jason (Hope) Gardner; her daughter, Lisa (Todd) Dale; her sister, Kathy (Don) Setterman; grandchildren Sarah Gardner, Davin Gardner, Caelan Dale, and Declan Dale.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, William Lewis and Marion Lewis Berault, and her brother, William Kell Lewis.

Marilyn’s family would like to thank Forrest General Hospital Hospice and the staff of Asbury Hospice House for their professionalism and support. A special thank you to Jeanette Coulter for the excellent care and love that she gave to Marilyn.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (12 Bilbo Hill Drive, Poplarville, MS) on Saturday, March 5th at 11:00 am. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until the Mass, Saturday at St. Joseph’s.