Lavell Gardner, 83, passed away July 11, 2023, at her home in Snowflake. Lavell was born Dec. 10, 1939, in Bellybutton, to her parents, Linford and Della Webb. She graduated with Snowflake High School’s Class of 1958. She married Horald Norman “Butch” Gardner on Dec. 12, 1957, in Snowflake. Their marriage was solemnized in the Mesa Arizona Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Lavell was a hardworking woman throughout her life. In her younger years, she worked as a clerk at the courthouse in Holbrook and then as a secretary for the papermill in Snowflake and, later, as a court transcriber. Lavell also worked for the F-Bar Cattle Company and, in 1984, she and her sister bought Shevell’s LDS Book and Clothing Store in Snowflake. She worked there for many years and loved to serve the public. Lavell was even busier within the walls of her home and farm. She worked tirelessly alongside her husband growing sweet corn for many, many years. Her family says of her, “she was the best homemaker” and was a loving wife, beloved mother and doting grandmother to her family. Even when she wasn’t working at home or other businesses, Lavell served several years as a councilwoman for the Snowflake Town Council. She was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in many church callings throughout her life including Relief Society president, Primary president and visiting teacher. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Butch Gardner; children, Lori Ann Gardner, Vicki (Bernie) Israelsen, Marty (Missy); sister, Sherry (Terry) Penrod; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Lavell was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Doyle Webb; and sister, Colleen Cooper. Graveside Services were held July 13. Owens Livingston Mortuary of Snowflake handled the arrangements.
