Shirley Mae Gardner

Shirley Mae Gardner, 87, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away July 25, 2018 at her home. She was born on May 11, 1931 in Topeka, Kansas the daughter of William Henry and Helen Elizabeth (Hershey) Stone.

Shirley graduated from Highland Park High School in 1949. She went on and worked for USD 501 as a secretary, where she later retired.

Shirley’s family was the most important part of her life.  She enjoyed reading, puzzles, fishing, golfing, and was an avid sports fan especially for KU, Royals and Chiefs.

She was a devoted wife and she and her husband enjoyed wintering in McAllen, Texas at the Winter Ranch RV Park. 

Shirley was a member of the Fellowship Bible Church and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Auxiliary.

She married Robert L. Gardner on February 14, 1951.  He preceded her in death on January 20, 2010.  Survivors include her children, Dan (Carol) Gardner of Topeka, Glenda (Don) Leftwich of Topeka, Karen (Rick) Phillips of Berryton, siblings, Jim (Nancy) Stone of Bealton, VA, Joyce Hartman and Sharon Terrell both of Topeka.  She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren. 

Shirley was also predeceased by her parents, a sister, Virginia Humphries and a great grandson, Noah Gallagher.

She will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home on Sunday where the family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m.   Funeral Services will be held on Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Fellowship Bible Church, 6800 SW 10th, Topeka.  Interment will follow in the Topeka Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the Topeka Rescue Mission sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas   66603.

Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.