Betty Cravens Gardner

BETTY CRAVENS GARDNER, 76, affectionately known as BG once she became a grandmother, passed away Friday, Aug. 24, 2018, after a gallant 17-month battle with cancer. She was born and raised in Newport, Ark. She graduated from NHS in 1959, and attended Arkansas State College (now University) in Jonesboro. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rilla and August Cravens of Newport; brother, August Edwin Cravens; and in-laws, Marguerite and Milton Gardner of Little Rock. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of over 57 years, John M. "Chuck" Gardner of Little Rock; son, Price C. Gardner (Sara) of Roland; daughter, Lisa G. Ring (Chris) of Ferndale; and her beloved red-haired dachshund, Maggie. Her grandchildren, Austin Ring (Taylor) of Fort Worth, Texas; Megan Gardner Adams (Evan); Rebecca Ring; and David Gardner, will always remember BG's "made-up games" like the rock game, 2-liter bowling, their Hen Party and Men Party sleepovers and home cooked meals. She is also survived by her brother, Lewis A. Cravens (Anna Rae) of Jonesboro; sister-in-law, Carla G. Brunner of Jonesboro; three nephews, a niece, and a host of friends. Devoted to providing a well-run "home" for her family, BG was fiercely independent, and enjoyed doing her own housework and yard work, because no one else could do it to suit her! She was an avid golfer who enjoyed being a member of Pleasant Valley Country Club's Ladies Golf Association, and won the Little Rock Women's Golf Association Championship in 1985. She and Chuck enjoyed playing in many scrambles and tournaments together, as well as simple rounds played on Sunday afternoons or after work together and with friends. BG was a longtime member of Pulaski Heights Baptist Church, where she served on the Hearts in Service (HIS) committee. She and Chuck enjoyed the longtime friendships, love and support of the Flock of Ages Sunday School Class. Visitation will be Monday, Aug. 27th from 5-7 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court, Little Rock, Ark. 72205. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 28th at the Funeral Home with Reverend Jim Munns officiating. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Betty's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.