On March 9, 2026, after spending the past 42 years in a wheelchair, Peggy Joan Gardner—known to all as Joan—quite literally ran into the arms of Jesus.
She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1976, and in 1984, after a fall and the tragic loss of her husband in an accident, she lost the ability to walk. Despite these challenges, Joan continued to raise her three teenage daughters, teaching them to live a life that put Christ first. She often said, “I am healthy, I just do everything sitting down,” reflecting the positive outlook and determination that defined her life.
Joan lived independently for many years before spending the final three and a half years of her life at Lincoln Community Care Center, where she continued to impact those around her through her steadfast faith and witness.
Joan was born on February 15, 1940, in Treece, Kansas, to F.O. and Carrie Ryan. She spent her early years in Houston before moving as a teenager to Lowry City, where she graduated with the Lowry City High School Class of 1957. She later met Russell Gardner, and they were married on January 30, 1959, raising five children: Russell “Rusty” Gardner, Ryan Gardner (Phyllis), Kelly Lasswell (Scot), Pam Grace (Tim), and Nancy Gardner.
Joan is survived by her children Rusty, Kelly (Scot), Pam (Tim), and Nancy.
She was incredibly proud of her grandchildren: Christina VanBuskirk (Jeremy), Adam Holmgren, Leroy Holmgren, Zachary Grace (Lindsay), Kyer Lasswell (Johnna), Tyler Grace (Shelby), and Camryn “Cammie” Lasswell; great-grandchildren Haydee (Keelan), Drew (Mallory), Kelsey (Gabe), Parker, Charlotte, Mark, and Reagen; and great-great-grandchildren Kenlyee, Emery, Winry, and Rolan.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell Gardner; her son, Ryan Gardner; her grandson, Adam Holmgren; her parents, F.O. and Carrie Ryan; and her sister, Mary Lynn Brock.
Joan’s life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and love, and her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched. Those who knew her take comfort in knowing she is now whole and running free.
(Memorials may be directed to Lincoln Community Care Center – Dough For You, benefiting the residents’ Christmas gift fund.)
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