We gather in love and remembrance to celebrate the life of Doris Gardner, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, who departed this life peacefully surrounded by love. Doris lived a full and beautiful life devoted to faith, family, and kindness.

Born to Wilmington Rhym and Jimmig McCloud Rhym, who were united in marriage in 1922, Doris was one of thirteen children. She shared her childhood and life's journey with her beloved siblings: Mattie Igess, Catherine Taylor, Walter Rhym, Donella Jenkins, Wilma Godfrey, Ralph Rhym, Roosevelt Rhym, Ellis Rhym, Barbara Hollinger, Ermateen McFarland, CB Rhym, and Dorothine Rhym. Their bond of love and resilience was a source of great strength and pride throughout her life.

In 1947, Doris married the love of her life, James S. Gardner, Sr., with whom she built a legacy of love and faith over many decades. Together, they raised eight children: Marva Johnson, Eula Collier (deceased), James S. Gardner, Jr., Pamela Dawkins, Charlene Gardner, Darlene Gardner (deceased), Glenn Gardner, and Avery Gardner. Doris was a guiding light in her children's lives—a model of grace, patience, and unwavering devotion.

Her love extended to her grandchildren: Catherine, Michelle, Karen, Chrystal, Tatika, Allan, Melissa, Joshua, Avery Jr., Triumph, Gracelenn, and Kenneth (deceased), as well as her 15 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren. Her nurturing spirit, gentle words, and heartfelt prayers will remain etched in their hearts forever.

Doris's life was a testament to her deep faith and commitment to her church. She was a steadfast member, finding joy and strength in worship and community. Her spiritual devotion was matched only by the love she poured into her family-whether through a warm hug, words of wisdom, or the simple joy she found in sharing her favorite butterscotch candy with loved ones, a small but sweet signature of her caring soul.

She leaves behind a host of extended family and dear friends who were touched by her kindness, her laughter, and her enduring warmth. Doris will be remembered not only for the roles she held but for the love she gave— steadfast, unconditional, and true.

Though she has departed from this earthly life, her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured, the lives she uplifted, and the hearts she filled with love. We celebrate her life and find comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with those she so dearly missed.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord." - Matthew 25:23

Home Going services will be Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 3PM at Salem Missionary Baptist Church, 101 Salem Church Road, Barney, GA, with Pastor Purnell Adams, officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visit this website or our Stevens-McGhee Funeral Home Facebook page to view a livestream of the celebration.

Continue to pray along with the family during this time.