Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

December 11, 2025

Louise C. Gardner, 86, of Charlotte, North Carolina, entered her heavenly home on December 11, 2025. Known for her love for her Savior, her gracious spirit and boundless love for children, Louise dedicated her life to nurturing others. Her own children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, yet her heart had room for all-every child she met felt the warmth of her kindness.

For many years, Louise faithfully served in the nursery at Central Church, where she cared for countless little ones with gentleness, patience, and unwavering devotion. Her legacy of love lives on in the many families she touched.

More than anything else, Louise loved her daughters and grandchildren, and her greatest desire was for them to each come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior so that they could all experience the joy and perfect peace of heaven with her someday.

Louise is survived by her daughters: Deborah (Bud) Nixon, Sheila Israel, and Sharon (Mike) Andrews; her grandchildren: Madison Israel, Dylan Israel, Abby (Dustin) Browning, Kristen Nixon, Hannah (Mason) Richardson, Mackenzie Israel, Sandy Nixon, Robert Andrews, Megan Israel, Sarah Andrews, Lily Nixon, and Faith Andrews; and her siblings: Elise Taylor and Jack (Judy) Coats and beloved nephews Robbie (Alice) Taylor, Brian Taylor and Brad Coats.

She was preceded in death by her father Cassie J. Coates, mother Myrtle Cole Coates Boone, and her spouse, Joseph P. Gardner, Jr.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Central Church, 5301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC, followed by a graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC. Visitation with the family will begin at 12:30 pm, with the service starting at 1:00 pm. Family and friends are invited to attend as we honor and celebrate Louise's life of compassion, faith, and quiet strength.

Louise leaves behind a legacy of love-especially for children-that will continue to shine brightly in the lives of all who knew her.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.