Lana Kay Gander

Lana Kay Gander, born on December 13, 1965, in Paragould, Arkansas, passed from this life on Saturday, November 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and nurse, Lana touched the lives of many throughout her journey on this earth.

Lana graduated as Valedictorian from Stanford High School in 1984 and embarked on a path of education and service. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Arkansas State University, followed by a Master of Science in Nurse Education, graduating with honors in her educational pursuits. Over her esteemed 37-year career, Lana devoted 12 years to St. Bernard's Medical Center before making her mark at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital for 25 years, where she served many of those years as a critical care nurse. Her commitment to caring for others was nothing short of remarkable.

On December 21, 1985, Lana married Mitchell Gander, the love of her life. They shared a beautiful partnership, steadily preparing to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. Together, they nurtured a family that includes their beloved son, Ben Gander, and his wife, Paige, along with their son, Will Gander, and their treasured grandchildren, Cora and Caroline Gander. Lana's love for her family was boundless, and her role as a grandmother brought her immense joy. Lana is also survived by her mother, Nancy Williams; sister, Annette (Jim) Morrow; sister-in-law, Lana (Benji) Rodgers; brother-in-law, Marvin Gander; nephew, Andrew (Melissa) Gander; and nieces, Candace Bounds, Alyson (Stevie) Booth, Autumn (Brian) Hicks, Brittani (Scott) Durand, and Brigette (Caleb) Elkins. She was preceded in death by her father, Adrian Williams.

Lana spent her entire life on the family farm where she was raised, yet her spirit of adventure led her to explore 21 different countries, often traveling with her son, Will, while also embracing solo journeys. Her passion for travel, coupled with her love for animals, painted a picture of a life fully lived.

Lana made her profession of faith approximately ten years ago, finding solace and strength in her beliefs. She will be remembered as a devoted caregiver, an adventurous spirit, and a loving grandmother whose legacy will live on through her family.

A visitation will take place at Heath Funeral Home on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 10:30 AM until noon. A graveside service will be held at Dettry Cemetery at 12:30 PM with Dr. Chuck Owens officiating, where friends and family will gather to honor her memory. Pallbearers will be Ben Gander, Will Gander, Stevie Booth, Jim Morrow, Cliff Stallcup, Danny Andrews, John Gay, and Jerry Gilliam. Honorary Pallbearers will be Marvin Gander and Wayne Stallcup.

In our hearts, she will remain a guiding light, and her cherished memories will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.