Eugenia Marlene (Gilliam) Gardner, age 69, of Germantown, TN, passed away Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at her home.  She was born on May 14, 1952 to the late Imogene Carlisle Gilliam Coleman, and J. D. Gilliam.

Marlene graduated Central High School and attended the University of Memphis.  She had worked at Shoney's South, Inc. as an Executive Secretary.  She was married to Merle Floyd "Buck" Gardner for 49 ears, and had three children, Brad (Amy), Elaine, and Patrick (Anna).  Together they created New South Sales, a manufacturer's rep agency, and Buck Gardner Calls, LLC, a waterfowl game call company, which they sold in 2015.  She loved her Lord, her family, and her conservative politics.  She attended Central Church, and volunteered with Shelby County Republican Women.  With family and friends she duck hunted, and with Buck she co-managed two hunting properties they owned in Arkansas.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her step-father, Olen Coleman.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Sunday, September 26, 2021 at Central Church, 2005 E. Winchester Blvd. Collierville, TN 38017 from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm and again on Monday, September 27, 2021 from 2:00 pm until the time of the service at 3:00 pm.  Burial will be private at Forest Hill Memorial Park East.

Memorials may be made to St.  Jude Children's Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.