Mr. Ed “Wesley” Gardenhire, 87, died on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at North Mississippi Medical Center. Wesley was born on April 4, 1937 in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma to the late Ed Gardenhire and Izora Lambert Gardenhire. He graduated high school and earned his Associates Degree from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, OK. Wesley served his country proudly starting in the U.S. Air Force and completing his tour of duty in the U.S. Navy. After his honorable service to his country, Wesley drove a truck over the road. Wesley was a man of great faith. He loved his Lord and was a member of Word of Life Church in Tupelo.
On Valentine ’s Day in 1995, Wesley married the love of his life, Norma Jean Waggoner. They moved to Tupelo in 2010 and fell in love with Tupelo. Wesley was a family man and a wonderful husband, provider, and caregiver to Norma. Wesley enjoyed life to the fullest. His favorite pastime was watching wrestling on TV. He enjoyed fishing, camping, eating peanut butter cookies, and anything outdoors.
A service celebrating Wesley’s life will be held on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at 2 PM at Word of Life Church with Pastor Tommy Galloway officiating. The church is located at 1984 Cliff Gookin Blvd, Tupelo, MS 38801. Holland Funeral Directors is honored to be serving their friends.
Wesley is survived by his wife of 29 years, Norma Jean Gardenhire; and special friend and caregiver, Paula Cole. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed Gardenhire and Izora Gardenhire; brother, RB Gardenhire; and a twin sister who died at birth.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that a donation be made in the memory of Wesley Gardenhire to the Word of Life Church, 1984 Cliff Gookin Blvd, Tupelo, MS 38801.
