It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Judith "Judy" Edwards Gardner, who departed this life peacefully in her hometown of Suffolk, Virginia, on September 13, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on November 6, 1939, in Suffolk, Judy lived a full and fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication.

Judy devoted her professional life to caring for others as a registered nurse. She retired from Guardian Care Nursing Home in Ahoskie, North Carolina, in 1999, after 19 years of dedicated service. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her career as she lovingly cared for her family and friends throughout her life.

A woman of many talents, Judy found great joy in quilting, cooking, and baking, with a special flair for apple jacks. Her green thumb was evident in her beautiful gardens, which she tended with passion. Above all, Judy cherished spending time with her family and teaching the Holy Bible, instilling values of faith and love in those she held dear.

Judy was a devoted member of Oakland Christian Church and the King Savage Circle of Bethlehem Christian Church. She took immense pride in the exquisite needlework she created throughout her lifetime, a testament to her patience and creativity.

She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bernice Waverly Edwards and Audrey Lee Stallings Cross, and her loving husband of 61 years, Rev. Wayne Allan Gardner. Judy's spirit will continue to live on through her cherished children: Brian and Janice Gardner, Rebecca and Calvin Askew, and Neil and Kim Gardner. Her legacy also endures in her seven grandchildren and two great-granddaughters. She is survived by her dear aunt, Viva Stallings, and her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, William and Dawna Gardner.

A funeral service in loving memory of Judy will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory, officiated by Rev. Jason Stump and Rev. Gary Newsome. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation one hour prior to the service. Judy will be laid to rest in a private burial ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Oakland Christian Church Food Pantry, continuing Judy’s legacy of giving and community care.

Judy Edwards Gardner will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. She touched the lives of all who knew her and will be deeply missed.