Susie Gardner, age 77 of Midway, passed away September 23, 2022, at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center surrounded by family.

Susie Rizer Gardner, of Midway, was born on September 8, 1945, in Clifton Forge, VA, to Edward Theodore Rizer and Gladys Rusmiselle Rizer. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold Clinton Gardner; brother, Larry Edward Rizer; sister, Betty Lou Rizer.

Susie grew up in Martinsville, VA, and married Harold Clinton Gardner on March 26, 1966. She was a devoted wife for 55 years, daughter, sister, mother, aunt, friend and Nana. Susie had a great love and generosity for her family, children, and grandson. She loved to travel. Her favorite place to be was at the beach. She enjoyed lunch outings with friends, and attending her grandson’s sports games, church activities, and school events.

Susie was described as “Sweet Susie”, always willing to put others before herself. She was a dedicated member of New Friendship Baptist Church, serving on numerous committees, Vacation Bible School, and for over 30 years served in the Sunday School nursery.

Susie retired from Legacy Wachovia Bank in 2003, with 35 years of service, and then worked with Perry Hudspeth at Anchor Financial Management Group for 10 years.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Gardner Leonard (Brannon) of Arcadia, a son, Harold Clayton Gardner (Angy) of Welcome, sisters Shirley Rizer Higgs, Nancy Rizer Williams (Edward), Margaret Rizer Tunnell (Stan), one grandchild, Reece Bishop Leonard, and many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and a special great, great niece.

Prior to her passing, Susie fought a tough 6-month battle with cancer. She never gave up and never complained. The family would like to thank Dr. Timothy Collins, at Novant Health Derrick L. Davis Cancer Institute, and his nurse, Crystal McHone, for their compassionate care during her fight. A special thank you to the 7th Floor General, ICU and PT teams at Forsyth Medical Center for their support and kindhearted attention to Susie and her family.

A graveside service will be held 3:00 pm, Wednesday, September 28, 2022, at New Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery, conducted by Pastor Chris Byrne. The family will receive friends after the graveside service.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the New Friendship Baptist Church Building Fund, 4258 Old Lexington Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27107.