Minnie Gardner

Minnie Lee (Broyles) Gardner, 81, passed away on Sunday, September 16, 2012.

The former Minnie Lee Broyles was born March 13, 1931 in McCracken County, Paducah, Kentucky the second of two daughters born the the union of James and Mamie Broyles. She departed this life for eternal peace on Sunday, September 16, 2012 at her home amongst family.

Minnie Lee loved growing up in Paducah. She told stories of her Aunt Fannie and her Daddy having a juke joint in the country all the time. But in 1945, while in the eighth grade, she made Louisville her home. Here she attended Madison Junior High School then Central High School before setting out into the world. Always independent and hard working, Minnie Lee worked various domestic jobs before becoming a nurse's aide at VA Hospital, where she worked until retirement.

Caring and compassionate, Minnie Lee never met a stranger. If her humor didn't warm your heart, it was definitely her cooking. Known for her 7up cakes, Ms. Minnie would feed anyone. Whether it be with a home cooked meal or an inspiring word, she nurtured your soul. Because she was there her home was warm and inviting to all. Once inside you were family and welcome to just about anything she had.

A mother to many, a sister and a dear friend, Minnie Lee leaves to cherish their memories her children, Beverly Trice, Norman West (Kathy), Paul Gardner, Valerie Davis, Maurice Gardner (Teresa), and William Gardner; her sister Willodean Myers; grandchildren, Raymond Hicks, Reginald Harwell, Marika Cathey, Tamika Davis, Norman West Jr., Neiman West, Maurice Cathey, De'Jon Garner, and Brooklyn Gardner; great grandchildren Olivia, Ray'on, Kealan, Darian, and Kortney; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.


Funeral services will be at 11 AM Friday at Bates Memorial Baptist Church with visitation 6 to 9 PM Thursday at the church as well. Newcomer Funeral Home (New Albany) is in charge of the arrangements.