Johnnie Gardner

Johnnie R. Gardner, age 88, of Crossett, Ark. passed away on March 1, 2012. She was born on September 1, 1923 in Hamburg, Ark. to her parents, James Valentine and Anna Pearl Bays Ridgell. Mrs. Gardner was the consummate homemaker and a member of First Baptist Church where she was an active member of Women on Missions and taught Sunday School for many years. Her concern for people was felt by many generations and her love for her Lord and family was her chief attribute. Many people have been blessed by her generosity and compassion, and her witness will continue to touch others. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 56 years, Lloyd Everett Gardner and a brother, James Ridgell. Survivors include two daughters, Kay Dumas and her husband, Elton of Crossett, Ark.; Joan Blann and her husband, Tim of Sherwood, Ark.; four grandchildren, Melany Hodges and husband, Chad of Hattiesburg, Miss.; Kevin Lloyd Kennedy and wife, Lisa of Eustis, Fla.; Beverly Weidner and husband, Aaron of Prairie Village, Kan.; Barbara Raney and her husband, Dustin of Little Rock, Ark.; six great-grandchildren, Josh and Rebecca Hodges; Ashton, Anna and Abigail Kennedy and Breckon Raney; and a host of nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 4, 2012 at First Baptist Church with Bro. Jamie Staley and Dr.. Boby Pennington officiating. Interment will follow at Judson Cemetery under the direction of Jones Funeral Home of Crossett, Ark. (www.jonesservice.com). Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Annie Armstrong Mission Offering, c/o First Baptist Church, 701 Main Street, Crossett, Ark. 71635 or Gideon's International, P.O. Box 83, Crossett, Ark. 71635.