Fannie (Fran) Gardner was born in Glen Allen, MS, and shared a beautiful life with her husband of 39 years, William Dale Gardner. She was a bright spot for many people, including her family. Her faith guided the way she lived her life. She truly was the hands and feet of Jesus, always opening her home and her heart to others. Many friend who crossed her doorstep soon became family, welcomed with warmth, kindness, and a good meal. She was fiercely protective of the people she loved, sharp and witty in conversation, and full of wisdom.

 She had a lifelong love for music and the arts, and shared her gifts throughout her life. Music lived in her soul, and she passed that gift along to many of her children and grandchildren, inspiring them a love for music and creativity that will carry on for generations. She found great joy in cooking an baking for those around her, often gathering loved ones around the table. In quieter moments, she enjoyed painting, crocheting, and reading. Her bright smile and joyful laugh could light up any room, and she had a special way of making everyone feel right at home the moment they met her. Above all else, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her love, strength, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Hickman Drury and Mary Martha Dunn Drury, and her siblings, Martha Ann Wilkerson, Larry Drury, and Frankie Drury. 

She is survived by her loving husband, William Dale Gardner; her brother, John Monroe Drury; and her children, April Lynn Russell (Dewayne), Melissa Ann Miller (Marty), Jevon Lee Paschall (Megan), William Dale Gardner Jr. (Anya), Patrick Ray Gardner, Jessika Lynn Elkins (Michael), Justin Layne Paschall (Jennifer), and Charity Dawn Gardner Barton (Zach). She also leaves behind 26 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, all whom were a great joy and blessing in her life.

Visitation for Fannie will be held at Cone Funeral Home on Saturday, April 11th, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with the funeral service following at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.