Margaret V. Gardner, a beloved mother, counselor, and cherished friend, passed away on May 12, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri. Born on January 5, 1937, in Nashville, Georgia, Margaret lived a life marked by dedication, compassion, and a deep love for her family and those she served.

Before embarking on her extensive educational journey, Margaret worked as a cosmetologist, delighting in the joy of helping women and girls look and feel their best. Her innate kindness and commitment to others soon guided her toward social work. After earning her GED, she pursued higher education with passionate determination, ultimately receiving a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Avila University in 1988 and achieving Counselor Certification from the State of Missouri. Margaret initially contributed her talents to the Missouri Department of Families and Children, collaborating with the Office of the Public Defender, and later serving with the Social Security Administration. Eventually, she embraced her dream of opening her own family counseling practice, where she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to supporting individuals and families through challenging times. The pride she felt for her education was profound, yet nothing surpassed her pride in her children and their many accomplishments.

Margaret’s warmth and nurturing spirit shone brightest with her loved ones. Known fondly as a super "Mother Bear," she carried fierce love and protection for her five children: Sherrie (Ron) Davidson, James Randall Gardner (Cheryl), John Douglas Gardner (Kelly), Ted Gardner (Donna), and Virginia Endecott (Jason). Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren—Jay Davidson, Cari Davis, Savannah Davidson, Jennah Beckwith, Jessa Wolfe, Victoria Rose Gardner, Logan Gardner, Craig Gardner, and Madeleine Endecott—and six great-grandchildren. She also treasured bonds with her very special companion, Ron Monaghan; her brother Marcus Parramore (Celia); sisters-in-law Shirley Parramore and Connie Grimshaw; and numerous nieces and nephews who were precious to her heart.

Those who shared Margaret’s later years remember her as gracious, generous, kind, compassionate, and a lovely lady with an old-fashioned warmth—as a "good ol’ gal." She was admired for her sparkling sense of style, always dressing beautifully for any occasion. When the moment called for it, her "blingy" dresses accompanied by a little extra sparkle in her jewelry would light up the room. Margaret’s talents extended beyond her profession and family; she found joy in gardening, particularly nurturing lilies and roses—and dancing in any form, from ballroom to lively square dancing. Her beautiful alto voice graced choirs, especially during Christmas carol seasons, enchanting all who heard her. As an avid reader, she delighted in murder mysteries and fictional histories. Time spent with loved ones was a source of particular happiness, reflecting the heart of who she was.

Travel was another cherished part of Margaret’s life. She often journeyed to Europe, where World War II memorials and the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica held deep meaning for her, inspiring reflection and reverence.

Margaret’s capacity for giving extended beyond this life. In a final generous act, she proudly became an organ donor, offering a young woman a precious gift of life. This act resonates deeply, mirroring the many ways she nurtured and cared for others throughout her journey.

Margaret was preceded in death by her dear parents, Tom and Mildred Parramore, and stepfather, Gabriel Ell; her spouses, James E. Grimshaw and John W. Gardner; brothers Tommy, Ronald, and Robert Parramore; brothers-in-law Robert, Bill, Thomas, John Grimshaw, and Jim Gardner; and sisters-in-law Joyce Parramore, Barbara Grimshaw, MaryAnn Fusselman, and Ruth Gardner.

Her family and friends will honor her with a service at Muehlebach Funeral Care in Kansas City, Missouri, on May 23, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a graveside service at Memorial Park Cemetery in Moberly, Missouri, from 3:00 to 3:15 p.m.

Margaret V. Gardner’s life was a testament to strength, love, and service. Her enduring legacy is found in the lives she touched, the family she cherished, and the kindness she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and lovingly celebrated by all who had the blessing to know her.