Geraldine Gardner

Geraldine “Jerri” Gardner was born on October 17, 1944, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Alfred and Pearl Lee Hayden. She was the beloved fourth of nine children, and from an early age, her light shone brightly.

Throughout her life, she carried many nicknames—each one a reflection of the love and affection others felt for her. “Pearl,” a favorite among many, came from the way she mirrored her mother’s grace, beauty, and gentle spirit. Her grandson Jeremiah affectionately called her “Gell,” admiring her golden hair and that sparkling gold tooth he thought was the coolest thing ever.

Geraldine’s spirit was truly one of a kind—independent, strong-willed, outspoken, yet deeply loving and trustworthy. She had a natural flair for fashion and always carried herself with confidence, elegance, and style.

At just 10 years old, Geraldine accepted Christ as her Savior. A true daddy’s girl, she was inspired by her father’s unwavering faith and devotion to God. Following his example, she became active in church—singing, praying, and praising the Lord just like her daddy taught her.

Geraldine attended Praco High School in Jefferson County, Alabama, and proudly graduated with the Class of 1963. Her life was richly blessed with the joy of motherhood, beginning with her daughter, Sharon, whose presence brought endless love and happiness.

The following year, she married her high-school sweetheart, Robert L. Gardner Sr., and together they built a beautiful life rooted in love and faith. Their union was blessed with two wonderful children—Robert Jr. and Cheryl—who became the center of her heart and the source of her greatest joy.

In 1970, Geraldine began her career at the Curtis Candy Company in Chicago, where she worked faithfully for 26 years. She retired in 1996, remembered by her colleagues for her grace, integrity, and kindness. Even at work, she carried herself with the same faith, compassion, and poise that defined her life.

After retirement, Geraldine dedicated her time to what she loved most—her family and her faith. She treasured every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, always offering words of encouragement, love, and prayer.

In 1979, Geraldine became a devoted member of Broadview Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Clarence W. Hopson. Her heart for service was evident in everything she did. She faithfully served as President of the Chapel Choir, Sunday School and Christian Education Teacher, and Superintendent of the Vacation Bible School Children’s Department.

A true prayer warrior, she poured her time, wisdom, and love into others—teaching, counseling, and encouraging all who crossed her path. Her compassion and steadfast faith left an imprint on countless lives.

As we celebrate the life of Sister Geraldine, we hold close the lessons she taught us—faith, love, and perseverance. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit lives on in every heart she touched. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend whose warmth and kindness will never be forgotten.
Geraldine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert L. Gardner Sr., and her parents, Alfred and Pearl Harper-Hayden.

She leaves to cherish her memory three children: Sharon (Tommy) of Montgomery, AL; Robert L. Jr. of Bellwood, IL; and Cheryl of Willowbrook, IL; thirteen grandchildren: Christina, Ebony (Severin), Erica (Sylvester), Erin, Essence, Isshecara, Jeremiah (Shavon), Krystal, Lazarus (Jazz), Robin, Robert III, Sharon, and Triceea; eighteen great-grandchildren; two brothers, James (Mary) of Bellwood, IL and Donald (Earlene) of Montgomery, AL; and one sister, Darlene of Birmingham, AL.

She was blessed to share her later years with a devoted caregiver, Terri Neal, whose care and compassion brought peace and joy to her days. She also shared a cherished “Thelma and Louise” friendship with Mrs. Mary Ann Watts, a bond filled with laughter, love, and loyalty.

Geraldine also shared a special spiritual bond with her circle of prayer warriors, affectionately known as “The Big Girls.” Together, they prayed, laughed, and lifted one another up, embodying sisterhood and faith in its purest form.
She also leaves behind a host of loving relatives—aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends—all of whom deeply mourn her passing and will forever cherish her memory.

Though her earthly journey has come to an end, her legacy of love, faith, and strength will live on in each of us. Geraldine “Jerri” Gardner’s light will never fade—it will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the hearts she blessed.

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