Edna Jean Garner, Iola, passed away July 24, 2013, at the beautiful and peaceful Kansas City Hospice House, Kansas City, Mo. Edna, you too will forever be in our hearts!
Edna was born July 12, 1952, in Bakersfield, Calif., the daughter of Bennie Lee Williams and Lena Pearl Conger, Iola. She grew up in Iola, where she was a daycare provider for more than 30 years. Edna was also a foster mother to numerous local children. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bennie and Lena. Edna is survived by her twin sons, Mitchell Garner, Iola, and Michal Garner, Overland Park; two adopted sons, Andrew and Michael Garner, Iola, and Jennifer Switzer, Overland Park; four grandchildren, Grace, William, Redford and Keegon Garner.
Edna was a member of the LaHarpe Ladies VFW Auxiliary. She enjoyed cooking, camping, fishing, watching children play, decorating for the holidays and gossiping with her best friend, Linda Bartholomew, Iola.
Graveside funeral services will be Monday at the Iola Highland Cemetery at 9:30 a.m. with graveside viewing beginning at 9 a.m. Memorials may be sent to the Edna J. Garner Memorial Fund under the care of Waugh-Yokum and Friskel, Iola.
Edna’s family has provided the following poem to capture her love for children:
Forever in my heart
Although I’m not their mother
I care for them each day,
I cuddle, sing and read to them
And watch them as they play.
I see each new accomplishment,
I help them grow and learn.
I understand their language,
I listen with concern.
They come to me for comfort,
And I kiss away their tears.
They proudly show their work to me,
I give the loudest cheers!
No, I’m not their mother,
But my role is just as strong.
I nurture them and keep them safe,
Though maybe not for long.
I know someday the time will come,
When we will have to part.
But I know each child I cared for,
is forever in my heart!
— Author Unknown —
Edna Garner
