Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Helen Gay, her son, Stephen James and her brother, William "Pete" Gay.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, James Gardner; her son, Stephen Gardner (Rhonda); her brother, James Ray "Jimmy" Gay; her sister, Shirley Gay; and her grandchildren, Stephen James Gardner and Jordan Leigh Gardner. Debbie is also survived by many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
Those who knew Debbie will remember a woman whose devotion was steady and unmistakable. She loved her husband deeply—once running through a briar patch to reach him and help him when he fell from a tree while hunting, a moment that reflected the quickness of her care and the strength of her resolve. Her love for her grandchildren, Stephen James Gardner and Jordan Leigh Gardner, was equally profound, and she took genuine joy in being part of their lives.
Debbie had a strong intuition and a way of noticing what others might miss. She looked after people, and her presence was often felt most in quiet, practical acts of support. Again and again, she proved herself to be someone others could count on—always there in a time of need, offering comfort, steadiness, and help when it mattered most.
Debbie’s life leaves a lasting imprint of loyalty, compassion, and attentive care—gifts that will be remembered with gratitude and carried forward by all who loved her.
Thomas-Yelver Funeral Service is honored to serve the Gardner family.
