Merlene Gardner

(From Parker Mortuary)

Merlene Kay Gardner, age 70, Joplin, passed away at 7:10 p.m. Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at her home after a sudden illness.

Merlene was born November 3, 1946 in Lincoln, Nebraska to the late Merle Franklin Garrison and Mina E. Smith Garrison and had lived in Joplin most of her life.

She worked as an executive with Zacson Corporation for many years and had also worked as an insurance underwriter for several years. Merlene loved to play computer games and had friends from everywhere. She will be missed by all that knew her.

In addition to her parents, Merlene was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Gardner in 1985.

Survivors include her children, Christina Baker, Joplin, Rebecca Dorn and husband, Daniel, Picayune, Mississippi, Misty Haynes and husband, Gene, Joplin; grandchildren, Izzabella-Rose, Dakota, Dawson, Logan, Gabrielle, Piper; and one great granddaughter, Alexandria.

Services are planned for Monday at 3:00 p.m. at Forest Park Baptist Church Chapel. Dr. John Swadley will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service at the chapel.