Lorraine Gardner

1930 - 2026

Lorraine "Lorrie" Gardner, 95, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, in Safford, Arizona. She was born on July 26, 1930, in Walkerton, Indiana, to Ralph and Lucille Norman.
Lorraine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roger I. Gardner and her son, James R. Gardner. She was born into a large family and grew up alongside her siblings Ernest, Benny, Gloria, Arthur, and Russell, with whom she shared many cherished memories.
She is survived by her daughter Christine McVean (Michael); her granddaughters Becca Brinkerhoff (Fletcher) and Jessica Joy Staudinger (Mark); and her cherished great-grandchildren: Björn, Azure, Olive, Greyson, Cosima, and Dax.
Lorrie and Roger were partners in both life and work, owning and operating Gardner Accounting and Tax Services for 30 years. She also managed the Mt. Graham Shopping Center for many years. Adventurous and independent, Lorraine earned her private pilot's license, with Roger as her flight instructor. One of her greatest joys was flying to Globe for lunch with her girlfriends.
Her faith was central to her life. For 30 years, Lorraine hosted a children's Bible study in her home, affectionately calling the children her "Tuesday Kids." Each week was filled with Bible stories, songs, prayers, games, snacks, and scripture memorization. An annual trip to a Tucson waterpark was a much-anticipated highlight for the children and a treasured tradition.
Lorraine loved camping trips to the White Mountains, picnics on Mount Graham and at Roper Lake, and spending time with those she loved. Though she didn't particularly enjoy fishing, one memorable year she caught the largest fish of the trip-much to the dismay of the men-which became a family joke for years. She was an excellent cook and at one time owned her own café, sharing her gift for hospitality with many.
Lorraine often said her greatest treasures were her family and friends, and she was truly blessed with many lifelong friendships. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Laura, Linda, and Yolie for their loving care over the past ten years, which made it possible for Lorraine to remain in her own home.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her faith, generosity, humor, and the steady love she gave to all who knew her.