Josephine Gardner

Josephine Gardner was born on February 14, 1938, in Tupelo, Mississippi. She was the eighth of eleven daughters born to the union of Joe and Ella Thomas.

Josephine moved to Hughes, Arkansas at an early age. She married Leonard Banks, Sr. in 1953. To this union, five children were born—Joe Banks, Leonard Banks, Jr., Wilson Banks, Leandrew Banks, and Marsha Banks. She moved to Chicago, Illinois in 1955. Her husband, Leonard, Sr. and three of her sons (Wilson, Joe, and Leonard, Jr.) preceded her in death. She married James Gardner in 1988.

Josephine was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was also a remarkable Christian woman who accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. She became a member of Prayer Garden Church of God in Christ in Chicago, Illinois. Josephine was a devoted member of her church who found immense joy in worship and in serving others. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she shared it not only through her words but also through her actions, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a comforting prayer.

Her life was a testament to love, compassion, and selflessness. She raised a close and caring family, always instilling the values of caring for one another and coming together through both the good times and the bad.

She was the heart of our family — a beacon of love, wisdom, and unshakable faith. Known for her incredible cooking, she could turn the simplest ingredients into meals that nourished both the body and soul. Sunday dinners at her table were more than just food; they were moments of togetherness, laughter, and cherished memories.

Her kindness knew no bounds. Whether it was a neighbor in need, a friend going through tough times, or a stranger who crossed her path, Josephine was always there — offering help, a kind word, or a warm smile.

Josephine departed this life to be with the Lord on March 5, 2025. She was a pillar of strength, faith, and love — a woman whose warm heart and radiant spirit touched everyone she met.

She is survived by three of her children: Leandrew Banks, Marsha Banks, and Gerald Gardner; her grandchildren: Brian Anderson, Cassandra Williams, Candice Verrett, Alora Banks, Leandrew Banks, Shiraun Tomlin, Joe Jones, and Jomel Hayes; twenty-five great grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, relatives, and friends.

We find comfort in knowing she now rests peacefully in the arms of her Savior.