Merle Garner

Merle Cosner Garner went to her eternal home Sunday, January 7, 2024. Merle was 92 years old and was born in Kents Store, Virginia to Anna and Adam Cosner.


Merle was proceeded in death by her husband of 54 years, Stuart Loving Garner. She is survived by three daughters, June Clement and husband Bob, Anna Amiss and husband Kenny, Tina Searcy and husband Greg, and two sons, Stuart Loving Garner, Jr. and wife Patricia, Henry Garner and wife Paula, along with 15 grandchildren as well as many great grandchildren.

While Merle may have been small in stature, her heart and spirit were bigger than life! One of “Nannie’s” greatest qualities was loving on her grandchildren and great grandchildren. All the children were always so excited to visit Nannie and Pop on the farm. Fishing, hunting, canoeing, four wheeling, nature walks, Mule rides, tractor rides, gardening, and eating their Nannie’s cooking was heaven to them.

Our mother was an excellent seamstress, farmer’s wife, gardener and cook. She read cookbooks like most people would read novels. She knew what every family member liked and when you came, that food was served. She blessed us all with the cakes she baked (especially her pound cake) along with all the cookies and pies.
Merle was the happiest when she was planning an event, and she was not afraid of pulling all us children in to help with specific jobs. There were birthday parties, showers, family reunions, church picnics, bluegrass concerts, weddings, fish fry’s and family get-togethers going on whenever there was an opportunity. The farm, flowers, ducks, birds, fishing in the lake and the back porch brought her much joy.
Mom’s work on the farm, her gardening and work as a Post Office clerk kept her busy, but she also found time for church, neighbors, and family.