Wilma Lee (Shelton) Gardner, age 87, of Iberia, passed away on Sunday, November 15, 2020, at her daughter's home surrounded by her loved ones. She was born in Iberia on January 10, 1933, daughter of the late Herman and Genia (Denton) Shelton. On September 20, 1949, in Jefferson City, at the age of 16, Wilma was united in marriage to the love of her life, Harold Herbert Gardner, and they were blessed with 50 years of love together.

Wilma was a life-long resident of Miller County. She was a homemaker and enjoyed working alongside her husband raising turkey, chicken, and cattle on their family farm. Wilma enjoyed gardening, cooking for large crowds, and taking care of her family members. Wilma had a huge heart and was always willing to help others in need. She had a sweet disposition never saying an unkind word about others and would always give the best advice. She was a selfless woman who endured a lot in her life and always persevered despite the many obstacles that she overcame. Her fortune was never measured in the physical possessions, but in the amount of love and kindness that she was able to extend to others. The life advice that she leaves behind for her family is face each day with a warm heart and a generous hand to remember the love that God shows us each and every day and to always extend that love to others.

Wilma accepted the Lord at a young age and was a faithful member of Hickory Point Baptist Church near Iberia. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend that will be greatly missed by those who were blessed to know her.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children, Patricia Hill (Bobby) and Kimberly Duncan (Jeffery) both of Iberia. In addition to her daughters, she is also survived her daughter-in-law, Sharon Gardner of Iberia; seven grandchildren, Christopher Gardner (Kimberly), David Gardner (Heather), Michael Pemberton (Stacey), Geoffrey Pemberton, Nathan Duncan (Jessica), Tyler Duncan (Christina), and Amanda Duncan (Ethan); step-grandchild, Laci Cochran (Terry); 18 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by her son, Danny Gardner; brother, Harold Shelton; sister, Lura Law; and many in-laws of the Gardner and Shelton family.

Due to the spread of Covid and in honor of Wilma's final wishes, a graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 18, at Hickory Point Cemetery near Iberia. With a kind heart and loving person of God, Bro. Chip Sanders, will officiate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Iberia.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hickory Point Cemetery.