Gwendolyn Richardson-Gardner

Gwendolyn (Richardson) Gardner was born on September 24, 1944, in Shelby, North Carolina, to the late Clarence Hambrick and Frances Richardson Gilliam. She was lovingly raised by her special aunt, Elizabeth Lett Beeks, affectionately known as "Aunt Day."

Gwen attended and graduated from the Cleveland County Schools in Shelby, NC. A lifelong learner and creative spirit, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Art from Norwich University, a Master of Fine Arts from Goddard College, and a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Vermont College.

Her professional journey was rooted in service, education, and community empowerment. Gwen dedicated much of her career to the City of Hartford, CT, where she worked in community outreach programs focused on employment services and youth development. She served as Assistant Director of the Connecticut Valley Girl Scout Council and later became Director of Employment at the Urban League. Gwen concluded her career as Dean of Continuing Education at Northwestern Community College, retiring in 2003.

Gwen had a deep passion for the arts—she loved music, reading, writing, painting, and gardening. Her creativity was unparalleled.  Her vibrant personality, curiosity, and creativity shone through in all aspects of her life. Her global travels gave her a sense of culture that most only dream of. 

After high school, Gwen met and married the love of her life, Robert Lee Gardner Sr. The couple lived in Shelby, NC for several years before relocating to Connecticut. Their union was blessed with four children—three sons and one daughter.

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Robert Gardner Jr.; her brothers Ronnie Gilliam, Gary Gilliam, Clarence Hambrick, and Derrick Hambrick; and her beloved aunt, Elizabeth Lett Beeks.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted husband of 62 years, Robert Lee Gardner Sr.; her children Barry Richardson (fiancée Becky) of New Britain, CT; Mark Gardner (Monique) of Springfield, MA; and Elizabeth Gardner of Windsor, CT; and honorary son John Williams of Hartford, CT.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Shannon Womack, McKenzie Gardner, Marc Walker (a devoted grandson), Domihnique Gardner, Mark Gardner, Jayden Chase, Jamar Gardner, Elijah Williams, and Shameca Williams.

She is also survived by her six loving sisters: Constance Moss, Hilda Jones, and Denise Lee (Keith), all of Passaic, NJ; Linda King (James), a devoted sister of Union, NJ; Janice Gilliam of Clifton, NJ; Deidra Rudd (Coy) of West Orange, NJ and a host of nieces, nephews and great grandchildren. 

Gwen's legacy of love, creativity, education, and community service will continue to inspire all who knew her. The world has lost a bright and vibrant light.

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