It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley Gardner (Rosenthal), a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Born on February 10, 1937, in Buffalo, New York. Shirley left us on May 8, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona leaving a void that can never be filled.

Shirley's warmth, bubbly personality, adventurous spirit, charisma, and empathy touched all who knew her. She lived her life guided by the lessons she often shared: to love oneself, accept the things one cannot change, and never give up on your dreams, even in the face of adversity.

Although predeceased by her husband, Robert "Bob" Gardner, Shirley's legacy lives on through her loving family who survive her: sons Bryce, Robert, and Douglas Gardner; daughter, Kelly Hooker (Gardner); brother, Neil Rosenthal; sister-in-law, Linda Rosenthal; and daughter-in-law, Sylvia Gardner. Her memory will also be cherished by her grandchildren, Adrianna McWhorter, Shelby Gardner, Christopher Gardner, Chloe Gardner, Astrid Gardner, Logan Hooker, Tyler Hooker, and Kasey Hooker. Her great grandchildren, Cassian McWhorter and Seraphina McWhorter.

Shirley's passions were as diverse as her personality. She loved her dogs and horses deeply, and she was an avid artist in ceramics and paintings pouring her creativity and love into every piece she created. Her legacy of love, passion, and resilience is reflected in the art she bestowed upon those around her.

We will greatly miss Shirley's beautiful smile, her contagious laugh, and her empathetic listening ear. Her energetic presence at every event and family function will be profoundly missed. Yet, her spirit will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

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