Kathleen E. Garner

Kathleen “Kathy” Elizabeth Garner

June 9, 1952 – June 26, 2025

Kathleen (Kathy) E. Garner, a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, compassionate counselor, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born on June 9, 1952, Kathy dedicated her life to serving others with kindness, empathy, and a deep, unwavering faith. She met the love of her life, Ronald Garner, at Olivet Nazarene University in Kankakee, Illinois, and they were married on January 19, 1975. Together, they built a life grounded in love and service, raising their three daughters in Joliet and Danville Illinois, before relocating to Orlando, Florida, in 2000.

Kathy served as a social worker at the VA, where she passionately counseled veterans and individuals dealing with PTSD and mental health challenges. Her work was more than a job, it was a calling. She touched countless lives through her professional care and her dedication to helping others heal, grow, and find hope.

She also served faithfully in her church, leading Bible studies, mentoring women, and ministering to anyone in need. Whether it was through prayer, counsel, or simply a listening ear, Kathy lived a life of love and selfless generosity.

Kathy found joy in life’s simple pleasures, long walks, reading a good book, trips to the beach, sharing meals (especially grapes, salad, and bread!), and spending time with her beloved friends and family. She loved her dog dearly and was often found in the company of those she loved most, offering warmth, wisdom, and a ready smile.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Ronald Garner; her daughters Christine Garner (and grandchildren Halie Thompson and Austin Thompson), Julie Garner (and grandson Deniro McFerren), and Patricia Garner (and grandchildren Dorian Rosa and Eliana Rosa); her brother Richard Efnor; and a large extended family and friends of those she served and loved throughout her life.

Kathy’s legacy is one of compassion, faith, and tireless service. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held at Orlando Church of Christ (2413 S Goldenrod Rd, Orlando, FL 32822 - on Sunday July 13th 2025, at 4pm.

If you have a special memory that you would like to share of Kathleen, please place it in the guest book below for the family to cherish.