Jean Knapp Gardner, 82, passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2025.  Her family misses her terribly. To her family, she was known for her love and humor. To others, she was known for her sewing skills and yard full of flowers. Jean grew up on a farm in Frankfort with her identical twin sister, Jane. She was valedictorian of her high school class and went on to Ball State University. While living in Lafayette, she met her husband, Michael, on a blind date. Jean and Michael went on to have four children and were married for 52 years

Jean loved to create via sewing, knitting, crocheting or embroidery.  She also enjoyed volunteering at her children's schools. Her children remember a Mom who always had time for each of them and encouraged them in their education and hobbies. They remember a Mom who sang along to the radio and turned up the volume for Elvis Presley. They also remember sneaking out of bed to hang out with their Mom while she stayed up late watching Johnny Carson while sewing for her own clients and the local dry cleaner. Her grandchildren will remember handmade sweaters, unconditional love, cakes, hugs and countless books read to them.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Gardner and her parents, Kenneth and Attarah Knapp. She is survived and missed by her twin sister, Jane Knapp Meadows, her daughter Jill (Paul) Rothenberger, son Kenneth (Jennifer) Gardner, son Thomas (Chelsea) Gardner, and daughter Jennifer Gardner. She also leaves behind her adored grandchildren; Jessica Rothenberger, Ian Gardner, Andy Gardner, Neil Gardner, Pete Rothenberger, and Zachary Gardner.

Visitation will be from 10 am to 12 pm Tuesday, March 4 at Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg, with funeral services there at 12 pm.  Burial will be in Brownsburg Cemetery.