Mary Leona Gardner was born April 28, 1935 in Gentry, Missouri.  She was the daughter of Wilburn and Gladys (Ruch) Deen.  Leona passed away November 18, 2020 at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Missouri at the age of 85.

On July 27, 1957, Leona married Charles Gardner.  To this union they have four children:  Larry Dale, Dennis Greg, Mary Charlene, and Jean Ann.

Leona retired after 20 years of service from MFA Exchange in Albany.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Albany and attended the Darlington Baptist Church.

Leona loved her family.  She cherished each one of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She loved it when they had supper or dinner dates.  Each one learning how to make her special tenderloins, (oh so good!), chocolate sheet cake and her homemade noodles (wow!).

Her hobbies were quilting, embroidery, playing solitaire and reading books.  She loved to share her books with friends.  Leona also loved visiting with her friends.  She had a special gift that made people love her instantly.  She had such a kind heart.  Leona will be missed by so many.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles on April 29, 2016, brothers Charles and Ronnie.

Survivors:  sons, Larry (Ginger) Murphy, Garland, TX; Dennis (Lea) Murphy, Kansas City, MO; daughters, Charlene (Dave) Frame, New Hampton, MO; Jean (Steve) Fahrenkrug, Bonner Springs, KS; grandchildren, Christy (Rob) Botens; Matt Gilbert; Rebecca (Derek) Boulanger; Amanda (Daniel) Novak; Melinda (David) Atwell; Lydia (Jonathan) Lombardi; JC (Krystal) Frame; Christy (Bobby) Goble; Dallas Frame; Bailey Fahrenkrug; Sam Fahrenkrug; 23 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Ruby Vandyken, Olathe, KS; brother-in-law, Lawrence Gardner, Wisconsin;

Graveside Service and Burial:  2:00 PM Monday, November 23 at the Grandview Cemetery, Albany.  There is no scheduled family visitation, however friends may call anytime after 10:00 AM Monday at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany. The family would like to request masks be worn. Online condolences: www.robersonpolleychapel.com