Carolyn (Gardner) Johnson

In Loving Memory of Carolyn Mary Gardner
Affectionately Known as “Cal”
Sunrise: June 11, 1952  Sunset: June 26, 2025

Carolyn Mary Gardner, affectionately known to all as “Cal,” was born on June 11, 1952, in Wellston, Oklahoma, to Othel and Mina Mae Gardner, Sr. From the very beginning, Carolyn’s life was a beautiful reflection of grace, service, and a steadfast love that touched generations.

A proud graduate of Wellston High School’s Class of 1970, Cal pursued her education with passion. She attended Bacone College in Muskogee and later earned a technical degree in Business from Metro Technology Centers. Whether in the classroom, the workplace, or the church pew, Cal carried herself with quiet strength, sharp intellect, and unwavering dedication.

Cal’s walk with the Lord began early at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Wellston. Her faith was not merely spoken—it was lived out in her service and in the way she loved people. Over the years, she faithfully worshipped at Antioch Institutional Baptist Church, Greater Trinity Baptist Church, and ultimately, Prospect Church. There, she served joyfully on the finance committee, sang in the choir with soul-stirring conviction, and humbly assisted in collecting offerings for Sunday School. Her presence was a pillar of peace and consistency for all who served alongside her.

Professionally, Carolyn dedicated over 10 years at Blue Ribbon Auto Supply before devoting 26 remarkable years to Metro Technology Centers. She was known not only for her professionalism and work ethic but also for her warmth, humor, and motherly heart. Her colleagues knew they could count on her wisdom during the day and her laughter during lunch. She turned coworkers into family—celebrating birthdays, exchanging stories, and walking beside them through life’s ups and downs.

Though she never bore children of her own, Carolyn’s nurturing spirit made her a mother to many. She opened her heart—and her home—to her beloved nieces and nephew: Kia, LaDashia, Jazmyne, Marvin, Brya, and Hy’Deyah. “Aunt Cal” was their champion, their counselor, their comfort. Whether offering wise advice, cheering in the crowd, or simply listening with patience and love, she molded their lives with the same gentleness and strength that defined her.

Holidays weren’t complete without her signature broccoli, rice, and cheese casserole or the cherished dessert affectionately known as “the pink stuff.” Her home was a gathering place, her presence a blessing, and her love a steady thread woven through every family memory.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her loving parents, Othel and Mina Mae Gardner; her brother, William Leroy Gardner; and her sister, Donnell Stubbs.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, cherished by her siblings: Gwendolyn Robertson of Midwest City, OK; Othella “Punkin” McIntosh of Moore, OK; Layola Long and Sherry Gardner of Spencer, OK; and her brother, Othel Gardner, Jr. of San Antonio, TX. She also leaves her “children in love” Kia McIntosh Jones (Ty), LaDashia McIntosh Snell (Blaire), Jazmyne McIntosh Waters (Romell), Marvin McIntosh, Brya McIntosh, and Hy’Deyah McIntosh; seven beautiful grandchildren who adored their Aunt Cal; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and lifelong friends.

Carolyn Mary “Cal” Gardner gave the world love, faith, and laughter wrapped in a quiet strength that will never be forgotten.

Rest well, Cal. You fought the good fight. You finished the race. And you kept the faith.

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