Betty L. Gardner

Betty Lael Gardner passed away in the hospital in Meridian, ID on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at the age of 92.

Betty was born in Emmett, Idaho on April 19, 1933 to Oliver and Lillie Gardner.  She had 3 sisters:  Lelia Brogan, Leola Price, Juanita Gardner and 3 brothers:  Melvin Gardner, Robert Gardner, and  Loyd Gardner.

She graduated from Emmett High School in 1951 and Northwest Nazarene University in 1956. She taught Kindergarten through third grade for two years in Oregon and 34 years in Stockton, CA. Some friends encouraged her to come to California to teach never thinking she would spend her whole career there. She was a supervisor for many student teachers, a master teacher who loved her students and even after retirement continued for five years working part time in curriculum for the school district.

Betty was a member of the Church of the Nazarene and held many leadership positions in her local church in Stockton.  She influenced many with her gift of hospitality and her life of service to others.  Although Betty never married or had any children, she was mother to many kids, teens and young adults throughout her life. 

When Betty moved to Meridian to be near family after retirement, she became involved at Nampa First Church of the Nazarene in missions, life groups, Bible studies and Sunday School. She lived out her Christian faith by taking treats to those who couldn't get out, offering to help others in any way, making other people feel special and blessing her neighbors, friends and family with her love and generosity. She truly was a lady that blessed many.

She leaves behind many nieces, nephews and friends that loved her dearly.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. at the Nampa First Church of the Nazarene (1421 6th St. South). Viewing will be from 10:00 a.m. to the start of services.  Interment will be at the Emmett Cemetery in Emmett (1205 N. Washington) at 3:00 p.m.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Nampa First Church of the Nazarene Carehouse Partnerships or Trinity Pines Camp and Conference Center.   

Services are in the care of the Potter Funeral Chapel of Emmett.

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