Garner M. Cavender, 77

Garner M. Cavender "joined the Heavenly Host" on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2009. She died peacefully at home in Encore/Sunshine RV Park in Harlingen, Texas, while holding hands with her husband, Jim, and son, Daniel. She was born March 19, 1932. "Garner came into this world with God holding her hand and neither ever let go." She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Garner McKinney; her father, Percy P. McKinney; her brother, John Preston McKinney; and her sister, Mary McKinney Harris. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Jim; three sons, James L. and Betty Cavender of Colorado Springs, Colo., John J. Cavender of Kalispell, and Daniel P. Cavender of Guerneville, Calif.; a sister, Louise McKinney Stough, of Corsicana, Texas; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; nephews, nieces, and a host of friends. Garner had many highlights in her life. After being a stay-at-home mom and raising her family, she completed her education and was awarded a degree from the University of Wyoming. She was a member of the staff of Advocate Safe House in Laramie, Wyo., in its inception and when she found there was a dearth of material available, she wrote a book outlining philosophy, methods and resources. The Rocky Mountain United Methodist Conference had it printed and distributed to every United minister and church in Colorado, Wyoming and Utah. It served as the major -- often only -- resource for years. She and Jim served joyfully and thankfully as the clergy couple on United Methodist Marriage Encounter weekends for 20 years. Garner especially enjoyed being a part of the Wednesday Wanders hiking club in Glenwood Springs, Colo. She loved to travel, and she and Jim were full-time RVers for 11 years. Garner was a wonderful wife, a devoted mother, and a compassionate and supportive friend. This world is a better place as a result of her sojourn here and "heaven is a happier place since her arrival." A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 4, at First United Methodist Church in Glenwood Springs. Interment will be at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11, at Hamilton Beamon Cemetery, Corsicana. In gratitude for outstanding care given Garner, the family invites those who wish to make a contributuion to CIMA Hospice, 5003 N. McColl, McAllen, TX 78504. Arrangements are under the direction of Heavenly Grace Funeral Home, (956)797-5500.