As a gift from God, Irene “Gloria” Gardner was born April 17, 1943 to late Reverend Arthur Lee Scott and Mattie Louise Phillips Scott in Columbus, Georgia.

After the family relocated to Florida, Irene career path was filled with great opportunities. She graduated from Carver Heights School, Leesburg, Florida, attended Jackson Mississippi University. Teacher’s Assistant in Lake County School, Hillsborough County Schools. She received her CNA certification as a Nurse Assistant at Padgett Nursing Home of Tampa, Florida.

From an early age her parents instilled in her the love of God and teaching of His words. She became a member of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, Leesburg, Florida under the leadership of the late Rev. L. E. McGhee. After relocating to Tampa, she became a member of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church under leadership of the late Rev. Dr. C. P. Epps and River Hill Missionary Baptist Church under leadership of the late Rev. W. R. Jenkins and at the time of her passing Dr. Joe Troope.

Irene’s life stands as a record of God’s goodness, she lived by the word of the Lord, patience, courage, faith and good deeds. She was a prayer warrior of her family.

Irene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and a loving sister.She leaves to cherish lasting memories with her faithful and caring husband JC Gardner of 43 years; children Rodney (Wendy) of Jacksonville, FL, Sonja (Mike) of Valdosta, Ben (Nicole) of Jacksonville, Frank (Shawn) of Valdosta, Yolanda of Valdosta and Greta and James of St. Petersburg, FL; a loving sister Annie Scott Thomas of Tampa; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Johnny (Diane), Milton(Shirley), Ben (Deloise), Annie Jewel and Easter (William) all of Valdosta, GA, Betty Jean, Jerry, Gladys, Thomasina, Glynis, and Donnie all Tampa, FL.

Celebration of life for Sister Irene “Gloria” Gardner will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 3:00 P.M. at River Hill Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Joe Troope, pastor and will be officiating. Burial will follow in Pallbearer Cemetery. Public viewing will be held on Friday, February 16, 2024 from 12:00 Noon til 7:00 P.M. If you are unable to attend the service, please join us at scottandrobertsmortuary.com for a complimentary livestream for Sister Irene “Gloria” Gardner.

Blessings