Saluda, SC

Joyce Gardner

Joyce Leopard Gardner, 94, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at her home surrounded by family.

Born in Ninety-Six, a daughter of the late Robert Birley Leopard and Mattie Lou Ellison Leopard. Mrs. Gardner was a faithful member of Sardis Baptist Church. She married the love of her life, her late husband, Boyd Gwynn “BG” Gardner on November 6, 1951, and they spent 54 years together.

She was a woman who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and took pride in her many talents. Mrs. Gardner known as “Mama Joyce” to many, enjoyed playing the piano and canning vegetables, carefully preserving the fruits of the garden to share with family and friends throughout the year. Sewing was another one of her favorite pastimes, and she was a member of the Saluda County Quilters, where she shared her love of sewing with others. She made beautiful quilts with care and creativity; each one reflecting on the time and love she put into her work.

She was known as a wonderful cook. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and comfort, where delicious meals brought family and loved ones together. Through her faith, her homemaking, and the many thoughtful things she did for others, she created a legacy of love that will be treasured by all who knew her.

Surviving are two sons, Terry Gardner (Janice) and Brent Gardner (Rhonda) both of Saluda; five grandchildren, Loren Shealy (Grant), Whitney Price (Josh), Kason Gardner (Lynsley), Payton Gardner (Sydney), and Breckon Trotter (Britt), thirteen great-grandchildren, Clark Shealy, Braxstyn Shealy, Rowan Shealy, Presley Price, Reagan Price, Brenley Gardner, Laney Gardner, Banks Gardner, Sheppard Gardner, Boone Gardner, Haven Gardner, Blythe Trotter, and Bellamy Trotter, and a sister, June Gibson.

Mrs. Gardner was preceded in death by five sisters, Nettie “Sis” Ruff, Blanche Jamison, Ann Anderson, Jeanette Schall, and Marie Marler, and two brothers, Fred Leopard and Bob Leopard.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tura Abney, Nicole Culbreath, and Vivian Valentine for their compassionate care, loving support, and kindness shown to Mrs. Gardner and her family. Their dedication and thoughtfulness will always be deeply appreciated.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 19, 2026 at Trinity Cemetery, 430 Trinity Road, Saluda SC 29138.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 1182, Saluda, SC, 29138.