Mrs. Mary Frances Gardner

Rocky Mount – Mary Frances Griffin Gardner, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.  Born in Nash County, NC on September 26, 1944, she was the daughter of the late James Daniel “Jimmie” Griffin and Elba Sue Capps Griffin.  She was also preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Edwin Gardner and her brother, James Bryant Griffin.

A woman of great faith, Mary was a former member of Grace Freewill Baptist Church and attended Fellowship of Praise Church for many years.  She had a passion for helping and caring for others, which she demonstrated for many years as an ER nurse for Parkview Hospital before retiring to care for her children and family.  A loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend to many, Mary will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Melissa Gardner Davenport (Chris); her sons, John Christopher Gardner and Phillip Edwin Gardner (Laura); her grandchildren, Amber Cash Pollard (Frankie), Cody Cash (Shannon), Jake Cash, Hunter Cash, Jayden Gardner, and Kai Gardner; her great grandchildren, Sydney and Elizabeth Cash; her sister, Carolyn Griffin Eisenhower (Blair); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dearest friends.

A Celebration of Life Service to celebrate Mary’s life will be announced at a later date.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary’s name to Hospice of Wilson, 1901 Tarboro Street, Suite 301, Wilson, NC 27893.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.