Carol Jean Gardner

Carol Jean Gardner, 79, of Massillon, passed away on April 13, 2026 at Laurels of Massillon.

She was born on January 19, 1947 to the late Rollie and Marjorie (Kelly) Gardner in Massillon, OH.

Carol was a graduate of Washington High School. She was a member of the Salvation Army, where she worked as a custodian for 62 years. The City of Massillon honored her with her own day on November 23, 2023 for her service to the community. She was devoted to her church and her faith.

Carol is survived by her loving nieces, Ann (Chris) Heusser and Stephanie (Jeff) Berner; and many other nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Robert Gardner, Jack Gardner, Gary Gardner, Buck Gardner, Eleanor Neace, Loretta Gardner, Arizona Fisher, Shirley Young, Ramona Goodnight, and Bonnie Gardner.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026, 10:00 am at the Massillon Salvation Army with Captain Brennen Hinzman officiating. Graveside Service will follow in Brookfield Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Massillon Salvation Army.

The family would like to thank the Salvation Army Family: Captains Brennen and Allison Hinzman, Colonel Barbara Van Brunt, Martha Busto, and Barbara Schumacher; The Laurels of Massillon: Jeff and his exceptional crew, especially Amanda, Meghan, Becky, Mary, Marcalenea, Dan, Janice, and Howard; Michelle and Catina from Wellspring Hospice; the exceptional staff from Crossroads Hospice, especially Jessica, Stephanie, Amy, and Micheal; Dr. Tripp, Vicki, and staff at Countryside Animal Hospital; and special friends and their families, Vickie Weinsheimer, Sarah Sonego, and Sandy, her beloved furbaby.

To share a memory of Carol or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.