Marsha Ann Gardner, 70 of rural Kenton passed away in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her family. She was born in Kenton on October 25, 1954 to the late Russell Stuart and Madeline Arlene (Oates) Mabrey. On February 23, 1974, she married Ricky Lee Gardner,this year they celebrated fifty years of marriage. She is also survived by two daughters, Michelle (Chris) Brooks of Lima, Nicole (Matt) Brim of Kenton; three grandchildren, Mackenzie Brooks, Tyler Caudill and Tristan Long. She was persistent that she needed her granddaughter to have a baby before she left us. She learned, on her birthday, that her wish had been granted. We know she will be watching over all.
A brother, Bill (Cindy) Mabrey of Bellefontaine, OH, nephew, Jeff (Stefani) Mabrey of Akron, OH, niece Kelly Caudill of Bellefontaine, OH and three great-nephews, Alex, Carter and Aven Caudill also survive.
She graduated from Kenton Senior High School in 1972 and went on to work with her mother in 1974 as an administrative assistant to the superintendent for the Kenton City School District. She remained in that position until retirement (over 30 years of service).
She most enjoyed spending time with her family (especially her grandkids). She loved being outdoors. She enjoyed working on her flowerbeds, catching sun, boating, going to Kenton football games, cheering on the Wildcats with her mother and rooting for her Buckeyes (O-H-I-O). We can’t forget to mention her contagious smile.
Her battle with cancer started at the end of 2011. Her diagnosis was stage 4 terminal cancer and they didn’t expect her to make it more than a year. She beat all odds and “put up one heck of a fight”. We were all blessed with her presence for almost 13 years after her diagnosis.
Visitation will be held at SCHINDEWOLF-STOUT-CRATES FUNERAL HOME from 6-8pm Friday, November 15, 2024 and for one hour prior to the funeral service (10-11am) which will start at 11am Saturday, November 16, 2024. Memorials can be directed to the Kenton High School lunch program or Universal Home Hospice in her memory and online condolences can be shared by visiting stoutcrates.com.
The family would like to thank her care team for their contribution in helping her stay home and comfortable until her passing.
