Gaynor Brooking McKee

Gaynor Brooking Hardison came into this world on October 1st, 1931, in Fullerton, California to Norma and Sonny Hardison. Her only brother Roy was 2 years older. She lived to be 91 years old, spending 69 years married to the love of her life Earl A Mckee Jr. She passed peacefully away in her sleep on the early morning of February 15, 2023 at her home in Three Rivers California. Services will be held at the Three Rivers Presbyterian church, Friday March 3, 2023 @ 11:00pm. 43410 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, Ca.

By the age of 12 Gaynor was a talented dancer, acrobat and model with an agent performing to raise war bonds for World War II and auditioning for Hollywood roles. In 1946 the Hardison’s moved to the hills of Three Rivers and the city girl entered Woodlake High School as a sophomore. It was here she and Earl began their love story. After graduation Earl went to Fresno State and she went to COS where she was a cheerleader and the lead dancer for the First COS Spring Operetta. On December 28th, 1950, Earl and Gaynor married in the Three Rivers Presbyterian Church where they remained members and sang in the choir.

They were blessed with three kids. Linda, Chearl and Little Earl. Gaynor was a dedicated community member active in every club you could imagine. From 1953 on Gaynor taught dance. In 1971 she and Tom and Jeannie Pappas starter Our Gym an after-school dance, fitness program. Gaynor then became employed by Three Rivers Elementary as a teachers aid in kindergarten teaching art and movement and ran the school talent show for 20 years. When Earl and friends started the High Sierra Jazz Band, they traveled the world playing Dixie land music for 40 years. At home she was the doting mom, cook, seamstress and taxi! Chearl served as their designated driver for many Jazz adventures. She loved to visit Linda at COS come recital time helping with costumes and commenting on all the dances. Gay continued to exercise until she was 87 years old. She had a spark like no other and we all so enjoyed and loved her.

Gaynor is survived by her brother: 93-year-old Roy Hardison of Modesto and his three sons. Daughters: Linda Amaral (Mike) & Chearl McKee, Three Rivers, Granddaughters: Gracie Lovenburg, (Brandon) Cash, Ty and Harlow, Visalia, Hilary Robello, Gianna Serafin, Mia Rodriguez, Jacob Rodriguez, and daughter Aubry, Visalia. Katie Robello, Irvine. Her dear son Little Earl died of cancer in 1983.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.millerchapel.com for the McKee family.