Mary Gardner, of Edwardsburg

Published 10:55 am Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Oct. 11, 1953 — Jan. 22, 2017

Mary Lynn Ellen “Sis” (Austin) Gardner, 63, of Edwardsburg and formerly of Cassopolis, died peacefully Sunday morning, Jan. 22, 2017, in the comfort of her residence after a courageous four-year battle with cancer.

She was born Oct. 11, 1953 in Niles, the second child and oldest daughter of William and June (Nathan) Austin. Her parents preceded her in death.

She was also preceded by one grandson, Ryan Elliot Lawson Jr., and one brother, Terry Austin.

Mary Gardner

Sis enjoyed cooking and entertaining, especially if she could be outdoors with family and friends, and her flowers and plants (with the radio blaring).

Mary will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by her companion of 14 years, Steve Barella of Edwardsburg; three daughters, Tracy (David) Phillips of Dowagiac, Lorrie Gardner of Vandalia and Ashley (Todd) Sturm of Durham, North Carolina; six grandchildren, Jaylin Lawson, Maleik Christopher, Elizabeth Ocampo, Joshua Lawson, Marindia Phillips and Harper Madison Sturm; one sister, Nancy (David) Dussel of Cassopolis; two brothers, Jerry (Cheryl) Austin and William (Kim) Austin, both of Cassopolis; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will gather at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, for a memorial service and a time of telling stories and sharing memories at Edwardsburg American Legion Post 365, 25751 U.S. 12, Edwardsburg.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals in Cassopolis.

Please share a memory or a message online at wagnercares.com.