Norma Jean (Linn) Gardner, 92, of Celina, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at Miller Place in Celina.

Born on May 5, 1934, in Celina, she was the beloved daughter of the late William P. Linn and Alma (Brown) Linn. On June 15, 1957, she married the love of her life, Robert Lee Gardner. Together they shared more than fifty-two years of marriage until his passing on December 15, 2009.

Norma was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, proud great-grandmother, and loyal friend. Her greatest joy was her family, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, faith, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

She is survived by her six children: Deanna (Patrick) Bayens of Chicago, Illinois; Jane (Scott) Snyder of Eleuthera, Bahamas; Bill Gardner of Celina; Nancy McDuffie of Marion; John (Kim) Gardner of Rockford; and Joe Gardner of Celina. She also leaves behind fifteen grandchildren and twenty-four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her tremendous joy.

A proud graduate of Celina High School's Class of 1952, Norma dedicated many years to Celina City Schools, where she served as cafeteria manager. Beyond her career, she found her greatest passion in horses. As an owner, trainer, and breeder of Standardbred racehorses for more than twenty years, she devoted countless hours to the sport she loved and developed lifelong friendships along the way.

Norma was a woman of many talents. She was an exceptional seamstress whose beautiful handiwork was treasured by family and friends. She loved cooking and baking and was happiest when gathering loved ones around her table to share a delicious meal or homemade treat. She had a gift for gardening and found great joy in nurturing flowers and plants. Her love for animals extended far beyond horses, as she had a special place in her heart for pets and all creatures, caring for them with kindness and compassion throughout her life.

Christian faith was an important part of Norma's life. She was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church in Celina, where she worshiped faithfully and remained active in her church community.

A funeral service will be held at St. John Lutheran Church (The Purple Doors) in Celina on Monday, August 3 at 11:00 AM, with Rev. Mary Miller officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church one hour prior to the service (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM). A lap around the track at the Fairgrounds and burial will follow at North Grove Cemetery in Celina. A reception at the church will follow the burial

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Willow Woods Equine Sanctuary and Farm, Hampton, Virginia, in honor of Norma's lifelong love of horses.

Condolences may be shared with the Gardner family online at LehmanDzendzelFH.com.