Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Mary Gardner Obituary
SPRINGFIELD - Visitation for Mary Katherine Gardner will be held from 3 p.m. until time of services at 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, 2008, at Union Baptist Church.
James D. Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Gardner
North Carolinian Social Club
September 17, 2008
We, the members of the North Carolinan Social Club of Chicago wish to extend our prayers to Katherine's family. She was a dedicated member of our club.
Linda Hodo-Coiley
September 17, 2008
Last week my mother called to inform me that she had seen a notice of Mary Katherine's passing in the Chicago Tribune. I was shocked and couldn't believe it. Why? Because Mary Katherine and other friends we called "the group" had spent so many blissful teenage years in my parents' basement. I went to high school with Mary Katherine. Our "group" years began our senior year as we planned our prom activities and continued through college and young adulthood.
I had seen Mary Katherine several times as an adult. She had continued to grow up in grace and had a wonderful career. My heart goes out to her family and friends. There are no words......
Bill Marvin
September 15, 2008
We are saddened by the loss of Katherine. Her elegant and gracious manner put everyone she touched immediately at ease. May she rest in the palm of God's hand.
Debbie Bowen
September 15, 2008
I met Katherine in 1986 at the Bobby Wright Mental Health Center in Chicago, she was my supervisor. I found Katherine to be a very classy, well organized, and a extremely intelligent woman. She never showed any anger but was very direct and she had a way of bringing out your best talents, even talents you did not know you had. We maintained our friendship over the years via telephone and Xmas greetings. We talked a lot about politics and especially the election now. She was so excited about the possiblity of our first African American President. I haven't seen her in several years but when we spoke we would catch up on what was happening in our lives. She never shared with me about her illness, I actually did not find out until this past February when her illness took a turn into another condition which is my area of expertise. We talked hours as I offered encouragement and would call more often to check on her. Even then she remained positive and so did I. I was shocked to find out that she had passed on. It was strange because two people asked me when was the last time I had spoken to her. I had planned to call her on her up coming birthday on 9/20, but I felt like I needed to call now. I received a telephone call from another friend who stated that she was in the Tribune and had passed on and that her Funeral was going on as we were speaking, to my disbelief, I saw that it was true. I called the Funeral Home and was told that the visitations had just ended. I am greatly saddened and my heart is broken because I will no longer hear that soothing voice, but I am rejoicing that she is now happier than she has ever been because she is in the presence of the lord. I send out my condolences to her mother, her friend and her extended family. May God bless you all and keep you in his perfect peace.
Karen Cooper - McDowell
September 14, 2008
My condolences to the Family of Mary Katherine Gardner. I attended Martha Ruggles Elementary School with her in Chicago, lived only 1/2 block from the Gardner family and my grandmother was a close friend. I only saw Mary Katherine occasionally as an adult, but her signature smile, charm and grace continued to be a part of who she was over the years. I am sure she brought light into many lives and for that we are grateful. May she rest in peace and may we all feel God's love in our final hours.
Elaine Lazell
September 14, 2008
I knew Katherine through her work with the Interagency Committee on Employees with Disabilities (ICED). She was always willing to assist wherever she could to promote equality for people with disabilities. I feel so blessed by knowing her. Katherine, your good works will go on!
betty westmoreland
September 13, 2008
I want to give my condolences to the family.I have never met katherine i came upon her obituary by chance in the suntimes.I too have sickle cell I am doing good.I have three healthy daughters.One is special needs. she,s terrific.I am 51 soon to be 52.Ive been dealing with it for years.Its made me a very strong woman.I look at it as a blessing.My life is wonderful,wonderful.God is good.my address is 11109 highridge westchester ill 60154. turn something negative into something positive and you will certainly soar.
Sue Masten
September 13, 2008
Katherine was my boss, who always strived to help those we served. She was compassionate. Maybe it was due to all she suffered, but never spoke about, that gave her that special understanding about others and their needs. She provided services her whole life long, albeit family, friends, or those in need she did not know.
She liked flowers and loved the color purple and when she was feeling low, I would try to send her some purple flowers or something like that to brighter you up.
When I was ill and in the hospital she would take her lunch hour to visit me and if I tried to talk about work, she softly say, that will be there when you come back... and smile, just get well, and she meant it.
May God's angel of peace be with you, may it rest on your shoulder and guide you through these days.
Sue Masten
September 13, 2008
Katherine was my boss, who always strived to help those we served. She was compassionate. Maybe it was due to all she suffered, but never spoke about, that gave her that special understanding about others and their needs. She provided services her whole life long, albeit family, friends, or those in need she did not know.
She liked flowers and loved the color purple and when she was feeling low, I would try to send her some purple flowers or something like that to brighter you up.
When I was ill and in the hospital she would take her lunch hour to visit me and if I tried to talk about work, she softly say, that will be there when you come back... and smile, just get well, and she meant it.
May God's angel of peace be with you, may it rest on your shoulder and guide you through these days.
Sue Masten
Hazel A. Wilkins
September 13, 2008
I had the pleasure of working on several projects with Katherine at DHS. So often we would begin discussing a particular project, and end up talking about the goodness of the Lord. Her spirit was easy, soft, and welcoming. I will truly miss Katherine.
Otha and Wanza Davis
September 12, 2008
God bless the Gardner Family. Know that your precious one is now with her creator and is at total peace. She will be missed.
Vandella Brown, Book Club Member
September 12, 2008
I have the highest respect for Ms.Gardner and her contributions to this life and community. She and I were acquainted through the James Weldon Johnson Study Guild. A highly intelligent individual that I enjoyed discussing books with and other issues of the day. She is much missed. Best regards to her family.
Sheila Lucas
September 12, 2008
Mother Gardner you know that Mary Katherine and I shared quite a bit, beginning with her first day at the Department of Rehabilitation Services. We had the love and care of our parents in common, running up and down the highway to various restaurants, and most of all Worshiping our God and Saviour together. The pictures taken and given to my daughter Kim, whom Katherine called "baby girl," of your trip to Italy, mean more to us than ever before. Katherine and I also share birth months and I will never have another birthday without thinking of and talking to (you know that I talk with those who have gone on to heaven before me), Katherine. Mother Katherine you told me that "Life goes on," and I will continue to live as Katherine and I often spoke of, with my life in God's Hands. My prayer is that God will make your remaining days peaceful, free of care, and full of love. You are in our prayers always and we send you our love always, remembering that love is an action word and I am ready to act in any way that you choose, just tell me what you have me to do and with God's help, I will do it.
God's continued blessing.
Jill Shoemaker
September 12, 2008
Katherine was a nice lady to work with, pleasantly interesting to talk with on break, and someone who left this world all too soon (for those of us left behind). Katherine, we were all pulling for you to improve and get back to us - this came so unexpected, even as we look back and see the signs. Keep us in your heart, Katherine - we will keep you in ours.
Kathy Markley
September 12, 2008
I worked with Katherine as her assistant. She will be missed greatly. Katherine always had a smile. She asked about My son and husband. God rest her soul. My prayers go out to her family.
Loretta Chambers
September 12, 2008
I met Katherine as DHS co-worker; then was honored to become her friend. My love and honor go out to you Heywood, and her family. She will always be Lady Katherine. Trip and I are always here for you Heywood...Love Loretta & Trip
gail lopez
September 12, 2008
As stated by my co-workers Katherine was a very classy lady. She would always ask about my family and that was special to me. I never knew she was as ill as she was because she hid it. She always had a smile on her face. I will miss you Katherine
Friends at DaVita PD Dept.
September 12, 2008
Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers...
Kimberly Lucas-Gilliond
September 12, 2008
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Katherine is and always was pure in heart and she is now resting in His heavenly arms. I love you Katerine, your love and friendship shared with my mom and my family will truly be missed.
God Bless you Mother Katherine and know that your daughter loved and worshiped you and you will forever be in my prayers.
Mrs. Kimberly Lucas-GIlliond
Makesha Pryor
September 11, 2008
I knew Katherine through my mom Sherry ,she cleaned her house and somtimes I would help her.Katherine had this classy and charming way about her.And being in her presence was wonderful,she always asked about my daughter and husband when i would see her along the way.Me and my mom will surely miss her great presence she brung to us.
Rennie Jones
September 11, 2008
Katherine was given the Gift of a Beautiful Spirit from God and she always shared it with everyone she came in contact with. She always used it to Glorify God.
To Katherine's Mother, family and Special Friend, Haywood Henderson, May God continue to Comfort and Keep All of You.
Michelle Sullivan
September 11, 2008
Katherine was my co-worker and my friend. Many conversations, including our recent one, was about peace. I'm so glad she gets to experience that peace without the physical pain now. Thank you for your friendship, Katherine... not goodbye, but until we meet again...
Verla Parkhurst
September 11, 2008
Katherine was a very special lady - always brought cheer to everyone she spoke with. You never really knew she was sick; as she never showed it on the outside. She was always concerned about how everyone else was doing. I will truly miss this classy lady!!
Krista Culbertson
September 11, 2008
Katherine was such a special person. Even though she was suffering, her thoughts were always of others and wanting to make sure they were happy and healthy. She would always ask me about my Husband and Son and it always meant so much to me that she cared. I miss seeing her throughout the day at work and then saying good-bye to her on my way out the door. Katherine was a beautiful woman inside and out and I will miss her dearly. My deepest love and prayers go out to her family!
ROSE-MARIE FERREE
September 11, 2008
KATHARINE WAS A GRACIOUS LADY AND A PLEASURE TO WORK WITH. SHE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
Kathryn Harris
September 11, 2008
I first met Katherine when she came to my home with Haywood to see Al (Cookie), my spouse, several years ago. I was immediately impressed by her kind smile and genteel quality, a classy lady. I told her I could easily remember her name! Over time, I got to know her better and she was always upbeat , cheerful, and hopeful, despite her health issues. A "Red Hat Soceity" sister, I will always remember her kind smile and sweet demeanor. My condolences to Haywood and to the family. May GOD bring you comfort and peace duing this difficult time.
God's blessings to the family,
Kathryn M. Harris
Martha Younger-White
September 11, 2008
Katherine's life was a gift. I can recall her first interview with then DORS at the State Of Illinois - it was the day that there was a protest at JRTC and all of the elevators were disabled. She walked up 8 flight of stairs for the interview and based on that alone, I knew from that day forward how determined she was and she was hired! Katherine has been a weary soldier on behalf of persons with disabilities - to that end, she demonstrated her life by sharing her abilities and served as an example to others. May she rest in peace and may our prayers be with her friends, co-workers and family.
Gerry Mitchell
September 11, 2008
I had a lot of contact with Katherine when I worked at DHS. What a wonderful, wonderful lady. Always with a smile and a positvie attitude. She will be greatly missed.
Ethel Spencer
September 11, 2008
Katherine, my co-worker, my friend, my counselor, and in some ways my shero. She was a woman of class. Even when she was in pain, she was always wanting to know how I was doing. She was kind, thoughtful and knew how to meet a challenge with a smile, no matter what the odds were. That was KG. I will miss my friend, but I know she is no longer in pain and that makes me feel less sad.
La Verne Butler
September 11, 2008
To the Family of Katherine, I want to express my deepest sympathy. She use to be my neighbor and we became good friends. My prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. May GOD bless you all
Nicki Renfro
September 11, 2008
I have only know Katherine for about 3 years and she was a very positive person. She took pride in herself and her family she spoke of them often. I will miss her smiling face as I pass by her office or leaving out the door of the Harris Building. May God be please with her!
Demara Albert
September 11, 2008
Katherine was a wonderful woman and very sweet. whenever i came in to the office with my children to see my own mother she always greeted us with a smile and the kids with a treat. she was and is a very special woman to me and wise beyond her years. i will truly miss her. and may God Bless her and the family.
SHARON BANKS
September 11, 2008
To the family, Katherine was a delightful person who always sought the good in people. She will be missed.
My thoughts and prayers are with you
Showing 1 - 33 of 33 results
Make a Donation
in Mary Gardner's name
Memorial Events
for Mary Gardner
How to support Mary's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Mary Gardner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
