Betty N. Gardner, age 75, of Morganton left this life for her Heavenly home Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at CarePartners Solace Center in Asheville, surrounded by her loving family.

Betty was born July 5, 1947, in Cleveland County, NC to the late Bennie E. Newton and Mozelle Wortman Newton. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her aunt, Katie Davidson, whom Betty took care of for many years.

Betty left home at the age of 18 to attend Appalachian State University in Boone. She worked at The University Library and put herself through school. She enjoyed her time there and became a lifelong advocate of App State. Betty earned several master’s degrees and made a career as a teacher and librarian in several different schools throughout WNC. Though Betty worked full-time, she was also raising a family. She loved her boys and was a fierce protector of them. In their childhood, Betty enjoyed taking them and their friends to do fun things. She opened her home and her heart to children and was known as “Mama Gardner” to many. Betty will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left behind to cherish Betty’s memory are her beloved husband of 43 years, R. Cline Gardner of the home; two sons, Brian Gardner (Courtney) of Marion and Jason Gardner (Elizabeth) of Weddington; six precious grandchildren, Parker, Paden, Vivian, Flora, Logan, and Grant; a dear friend that Betty thought of as a daughter, Margaret-Jean “M.J.” Rutkowsky; and a number of special friends.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Marion. A funeral service to celebrate Betty’s life will follow at 2:00 pm at the church with Rev. Dr. Scott Hagaman officiating. Interment will follow the service at McDowell Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Betty’s memory are asked to consider University Libraries at Appalachian State University, P.O. Box 32026, Boone, NC 28608.

Visitation

Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 1:00PM - 2:00PM

First Baptist Church of Marion
99 North Main Street
Marion, NC Carolina28752

Funeral Service

Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 2:00PM

First Baptist Church of Marion
99 North Main Street
Marion, NC Carolina28752

Final Resting Place

McDowell Memorial Park
327 Memorial Park Road
Marion, NC Carolina28752

https://www.westmorelandfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Betty-N-Gardner?obId=28037028