Booker T. Gardner died at home surrounded by his family after a long illness of kidney disease. He was born on April 21, 1937 to Joe and Lue Ella (Harris) Gardner in Bourbon, Mississippi. He was the first born of their two sons.
Booker graduated from Pershing High School in Detroit, Michigan then went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from the Wayne State University, a Master’s Roosevelt University, and a Doctorate from Southern Illinois University. On April 2, 1966 he married his lifelong friend Pauline Beverly Johnson in Chicago, Illinois. Two children, Julian and Joselynne, were born of this union.
Booker loved to travel and traveled extensively in the United States, Canada, Europe, Mexico, and Africa. He also had a passion for the arts, stamp collecting and jazz. Booker lived his life as a humanitarian, educator, community activist and volunteer for many years having a positive impact on the Madison community. He was a leader in the Madison area Urban League and EEOC. He also served on the Boards of the Dane County United Way, and Madison Literacy Network where he raised thousands of dollars to help increase adult literacy in Madison. Due to his vast educational knowledge and experience, Booker was often requested to assist schools in implementing new and innovative educational programs throughout the United States.
Booker was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Lue Ella, and his brother Jimmie Lee. He is survived by his devoted wife and longtime caregiver Pauline, his son Julian, his daughter Joselynne, and his three loving grandchildren Kendrick Schultz, Simone Gardner, and Christian McKoy, and many beloved nieces and nephews, lots of cousins, and a host of amazing friends.
A Celebration of Booker's Life will be held at a later date.
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
Cress Center
6021 University Ave. Madison
(608) 238-8406
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