Vaunda Noreene (Long) Gardner, 94, Springfield, MO, passed away June 4, 2026, at Cox Hospital surrounded by family.

Vaunda was born April 27, 1932, in Springfield, MO to Bess and Clarice (Franks) Long. She grew up in Wilson’s Creek, MO. As a young adult, she attended Draughon Business College. She worked throughout her career as an Executive Secretary retiring from Springday/Dayco Corporation.

Vaunda married her best friend and love of her life, Richard “Leo” Gardner on May 6, 1955. They made their home in Battlefield, MO where they lived while raising their three children. After retirement they called Nixa, MO their home. She and Leo attended Calvary Bible Church and Nixa Church of the Nazarene where they made many lifelong friendships. Quiet by nature, Vaunda would say that she did God’s work through prayer. She proclaimed herself as a “Prayer Warrior”.

Vaunda was a talented seamstress who loved sewing, quilting, embroidery and cross-stitch. She also loved cooking and baking for her family. Every holiday and birthday was filled with love and amazing food. She enjoyed camping, traveling and spending time with friends and family.

She will be remembered by her family as a devoted Wife, Mom and Grandma who loved them dearly. Her quick wit, sprinkled with redhead sass, earned her the nickname Big Red early in life. Although small in stature she was worthy of the name!

Vaunda is survived by her daughters, Brenda Gardner (Beth) and LaVada Carnahan (Bryan), grandsons Rance and Zane Gardner, granddaughter Alysha Mooneyham, great grandson Cooper Hill and a host of family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Leo and son, Mark.

Per Vaunda’s wishes, Graveside services will be held at Delaware Cemetery June 26^th, at 11:00 a.m.   Arrangements are under the direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home South.