Jami Lin Gardner's Obituary
Jami Lin Gardner, 30 years of Dupo, IL, passed away on July 30, 2025 at St. Louis University Hospital. She was born May 21, 1995, in Jacksonville, FL.
Jami was truly one of a kind and brought so much joy to everyone she met. She was a known channel surfer, searching for the perfect show or sporting event to watch. A huge St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues and Kansas City Chiefs fan, as well as stockcar racing. Mickey Mouse was a dear favorite, though she loved all things Disney. Jami's favorite holiday was Halloween and helping hand out candy to all the trick-or-treaters, as well as sneaking some candy for herself with help from her Uncle Tim. Another favorite was going on car rides and listening to a variety of music.
Jami will be dearly missed by everyone that knew her. Her family would like to extend a deep, heartfelt thank you to everyone that assisted her throughout the years including: Dupo School District, her case worker, Debbie, home school teacher, Kathy, special education director, Kraig Roth, and Dr. Henztleman for their devoted time. Also, a special thank you Ronnie Dell, for several years of always lending a helping hand.
As a final act of love, Jami was able to be an organ donor through Donate Life and assisted numerous others that were in need of help.
Surviving are her Mother, Carol (Stanberry) Wilkerson; Brothers, Dustin Wilkerson and David Wilkerson, Jr.; Grandmother, Phyllis Stanberry; Grandmother, Diane Stanberry; Uncles, Tim (Deana) Stanberry and Mark (Lorrie) Stanberry; numerous cousins; along with other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her Father, Benjamin Gardner; Brother, Derek Wilkerson; Grandfather, Bill Stanberry; and Great-Grandmother, Audrey Cobb.
Visitation will be Thursday, August 7, 2025, 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Leesman Funeral Home, Dupo, IL. Celebration of Life will follow at 6 pm and the family invites anyone with a story about Jami to share.
In lieu of flowers and other customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to the family or donor's choice. Checks made payable to Carol Wilkerson and can be received at Leesman Funeral Home.
For more information, please access our website, www.leesmanfuneralhome.com. Arrangements were handled by Leesman Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of Jami?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jami?
Share a story where Jami's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jami you’ll never forget.
How did Jami make you smile?