Mary Ann Gardner

Mary Ann Gardner (nee Denker), age 91 of Mt. Washington, passed away, June 7, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Joseph E. Gardner, devoted mother of Karen Myers, Gary (Annette) Gardner, Jeff (Cindy) Gardner, Kathleen (Mike) Willenborg, Kenneth Gardner, and the late Greg Gardner, loving grandmother of Lauren (David) and Michael Myers, Kristen (Kenny) Human, Ryan (Chelsea), Brittany, Zach, and Courtney Gardner, Morgan (Mac) Latimore, Austin (Shelby) and Carson Gardner, Michael and Samantha Willenborg, & Jack and Maggie Gardner, cherished great-grandmother of Christopher, Connor, Kenneth, Theodore, Lincoln, Allie, Brooklynn, and Blair. She was preceded in death by her loving dog Barney Bear and her dear sister-in-law Joyce Forman.

The Life of Mary Ann Gardner:

Mary Ann Gardner was born on January 28, 1935, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Carl and Marie Denker. She lived in Dayton, Kentucky until she was five when she moved to Price Hill. She attended Resurrection School and Seton High School, where she formed friendships that would last a lifetime.

Mary Ann was sitting on the front porch and she caught the eye of a young man named Joseph Gardner. He stopped, introduced himself, and asked her on a date. It was the beginning of a love story that would span 54 years of marriage. They were married on October 19, 1957 at Resurrection Church.

Mary Ann and Joseph built a beautiful life and raised six children: Karen, Gary, Jeffrey, Kathleen, Kenneth, and Gregory. Mary Ann devoted herself to her family, rarely missing a game, performance, school event, or milestone. Whether cheering from the sidelines or offering support behind the scenes, her children always knew she was there.

As her family grew, so did her circle of friends. She volunteered at McNicholas High School and later found a career she truly loved at State Farm working for Bob Donnelly. She worked for nearly 30 years and formed many lasting friendships. She retired in September 2020.

Mary Ann and Joseph shared a love of travel and adventure, exploring the Caribbean and Europe together. One of the most treasured moments of her life was visiting the Vatican and meeting the Pope.

After Joseph's passing on February 18, 2011, Mary Ann continued to live life with the same energy and warmth that defined her. She shared her life and home with her beloved pet, Barney Bear, who passed away in June 2015. She cherished time with her grandchildren and developed a love for hunting treasures at local garage sales.

Mary Ann was also the Cincinnati Bengals biggest fan. A season ticket holder for more than 35 years, she never missed an opportunity to cheer on her team. When the Bengals were playing, everything else could wait. Her grandchildren knew not to call, text, or stop by during a game. Game days were the few times Mary Ann ever sent a short text: “Do you have your peanuts? Don’t forget the Bengals game.” Her love for the Bengals was unwavering, and a heartfelt “Who Dey!” will always bring a smile to those who knew her.

Above all, Mary Ann will be remembered for her unwavering love of family, her strong faith, her kindness, and her joyful spirit. She was the heart of countless family gatherings, a loyal friend, a loving mother and grandmother, and a woman who made everyone feel welcome. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored and in the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. Love you bunches, The Gardner Family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Guardian Angels Church on Tuesday, June 16th at 10:30 a.m. where family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass. If desired, memorials may be directed to either Guardian Angels Church or Peppermint Pig Animal Rescue .