Karen (Gardner) Hovatter

Following a valiant battle with Leukemia, Karen Gardner Hovatter received eternal healing on July 7, 2018 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi at the age of 63. She leaves behind her loving husband of 43 years, William Hovatter, Jr (Bill); her Son, Sonny Lee Hovatter (wife Julia); and her only grandchild, Barrett Reed Hovatter.

Karen was born on January 27, 1955 in State Line, MS, to father Jim Mose Gardner, who predeceased her, and mother Martha Gardner.  She grew up in a large, loving family on their farm in State Line, MS with five sisters and three brothers.

Karen married William Hovatter, Jr on January 10, 1976. They relocated to Mobile, AL, where Karen accepted a position at Beck’s Skyline Day Care Center where she was a beloved child care provider for 42 years. There the couple lived and raised their only child.

Karen is survived by her mother, husband, son and grandson, as well as her sisters, Lois Gardner, Early Mae Letchworth, Cathie Gardner, Susie Hagan, and Martha Kay Goff; her brothers, Glenn Gardner, Lenn Gardner and Mose Gardner, Jr; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father.

Karen requested to be cremated. A Memorial/Interment Service will be held at 11 AM Thursday, July 12, 2018 at Bailey Gardner Cemetery in State Line, Mississippi. A family gathering at Eret Baptist Church will follow; all are welcome. 

The family would especially like to thank Providence Cancer Center for their excellent work and loving care; the staff of Deaconess Home Health and Hospice Care for their constant, attentive treatment; and the Asbury Hospice House. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Leukemia Foundation. Service dates and times will be announced at a later time.