Margaret Meta (Fowler) Gardner

Margaret Meta (Fowler) Gardner, age 87, of Morristown, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home, on March 27, 2026. She was born on August 1, 1938, in Hamblen County, Tennessee, to Isaac and Ethel Fowler.

Margaret was preceded in death by her beloved husband of fifty years, Charles Edward Gardner; her parents, Isaac and Ethel Fowler; sisters, May Fowler Knight, Jewel Fowler Harbin, Beulah Fowler Purgason, Juanita Fowler Stroud, and Johnnie Fowler Douthat; and brother, Alonzo Fowler.

She is survived by her loving children, Jeffrey Gardner and wife Sharon and Vicki Gardner King. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Marcy Edgar and husband John, Kelli King, Kara Elkins and husband Brandon, Aaron Price, and Nick Price; as well as her treasured great-granddaughters, Amelia and Savannah. Margaret is also survived by her brother, Louis Fowler, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Margaret and her beloved husband proudly owned and operated Gardner Insurance and A-1 Equipment Rental in Morristown, where they built not only successful businesses but lasting relationships throughout the community. She was a devoted member of Russellville Baptist Church, and her faith was an important part of her life.

Her greatest joy came from time spent with her husband, children, granddaughters, and great-granddaughters. Margaret had a gift for making people feel welcomed and loved, often expressing her care through cooking for family and friends. Her famous sausage balls were a favorite tradition that brought loved ones together and created lasting memories.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday March 31, 2026, at 1 PM, in Hamblen Memory Gardens in Morristown, TN. The service will be officiated by Pastor Steve Smith, with arrangements provided by Allen Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

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