Margaret Louise Paul Gardner

Margaret Paul Gardner, 76, of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on Saturday, May 3, 2025.

Born in Johnson City to the late John and Emma Paul, Margaret was a proud graduate of Science Hill High School and East Tennessee State University. She went on to break barriers as one of only two women to graduate from the Duke University Cytology program, forging a distinguished career as a respected cytotechnologist. Over the years, she worked with numerous laboratories and hospitals across North Carolina and Tennessee, ultimately becoming an independent contractor before her retirement.

Margaret married the love of her life, Dean Gardner, in 1970, after a romance that began in sixth grade and blossomed through their teenage years. Their enduring love was rooted in friendship, resilience, and a sense of adventure. While Dean served in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in the Philippines, Margaret took a position in Laurinburg, North Carolina. When she went into labor with their first daughter, Deanna, she drove herself to Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indiana—where her sister Rosa was stationed—to deliver her baby, and then drove herself and her newborn back home. It was a story she wore like a badge of honor, perfectly capturing her strength, independence, and unwavering determination.

Margaret’s passion for life extended far beyond her work. She loved gardening, music, dancing, and trips to the beach. She had an uncanny ability to light up every room—always the center of attention and the life of every gathering. With Dean by her side, she never met a stranger. She had an open heart, an insatiable curiosity about others’ lives, and a rare gift for making everyone feel seen and appreciated. She believed in finding something good in everyone she met.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dean Gardner; siblings Cecil, Ernest, Mary, Lizzie, and Rosa; and several extended family members.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Deanna Long and husband Jim, and Leah Gardner; her cherished granddaughter, Greysan; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will carry her spirit forward.

Margaret leaves behind a legacy of strength, joy, and love. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Margaret’s family will receive friends on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 pm, at Morris-Baker Funeral Home, with a funeral immediately following at 7:00 pm, under the direction of Chaplain Stephen Collins. The graveside service will commence a 2:00 pm, on Tuesday, May 13, at Roselawn Memory Gardens. Those attending are asked to please meet at the cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve Margaret’s family. (423) 282-1521