Linda Conant Gardner

April 1, 1935 - March 16, 2022

Linda Gardner was welcomed into the arms of her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, March 16, 2022. The epitome of a faithful servant- Linda was a devoted wife, a loving mother & grandmother, and a staunch prayer warrior for all around her. Raised in Durham, North Carolina, Linda was one of seven children. Her father was a Professor at Duke University’s Medical School & a gentleman farmer who delegated many of the farm chores to his children. For years, Linda and her siblings regaled others with tales of their antics and comradery on the farm. Linda’s love for learning led to her scholastic success first at Durham High School and then at Duke University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. While at Duke University, Linda met and was wooed by the love of her life, Led Gardner. Linda and Led graduated on June 3, 1957, and were married the very next day. After a brief sojourn in Massachusetts, followed by 3 years in Kingsport, TN, Linda and Led settled in Knoxville where they raised their 5 children, in the beloved family home they shared for over 55 years. Linda’s life was guided by her devout faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. An active member of Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church since 1964, Linda volunteered in the children’s ministry, assisted with the clothing closet, participated in Bible studies, and enjoyed hosting church supper club as well as numerous other church activities. On Sunday mornings, Linda could be found in her usual seat in the sanctuary singing, praying, and taking copious sermon notes. In addition to her church involvement, Linda organized community Moms In Prayer groups and participated in Bible Study Fellowship for many years. Linda’s heart was so full of love for others and so centered on prayer that she truly prayed without ceasing for family, friends, leaders, neighbors, and even perfect strangers. Second only to her faith, Linda was dedicated to her family. Led and their 5 children were blessed by her selfless servant’s heart as she tended to their every need. Linda was an avid reader of Christian books, she delighted in cooking, gardening, sewing, needlework, and even home repairs of all kinds. She loved supporting her husband and his numerous commitments throughout the community. Attending her grandchildren’s celebrations and their various activities brought her unceasing joy. Prior to his passing in 2020, Linda and Led could often be spotted walking the trails of Lakeshore Park, hand in hand, smiling and greeting all passersby. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Led, and her brother Steve. She is survived by her children Led III (Connie), Linda (Warren), Laura (Martin), Barbara, & Charlie (Windy) along with her 11 grandchildren, Brittany (Kevin), Chase, Sarah (Stephen), Andrew (Lauren), Laura Grace (Kenneth), Maggie, Sam, Reece, Carson, Davis, Caroline, and her great granddaughter, Eleanor. Linda is also survived by her siblings Bill, Sylvia, Willa, Laura, & Tali. Linda’s family & friends were all truly inspired by her kind heart, loving spirit, and selfless nature. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either the Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund (Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church, 3700 Keowee Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37919 https://app.securegive.com/sequoyahchurch/main/donate/category ) or Moms In Prayer International https://momsinprayer.org/give/ .