May 16, 1930 - Oct 29, 2016
The world lost a loving mother, loyal friend, musician, opera singer, and teacher when Naunie B Gardner passed away after suffering a stroke in Reno, NV. Naunie was born to Benjamin Marriner and Nellie VanNoy Barrus in Fairview, WY. Naunie attended Brigham Young and Utah State Universities, earning a BA at USU with a composite major in Voice and Piano, and an MA in Vocal Performance. Naunie then began a notable career teaching music to young
people - one of the true joys in her life.
Naunie served on the faculty at University of Nevada - Reno, where she taught voice for 20 years. She taught elementary school, junior high, and high school music in Carson City during the late ‘60s and into the ‘70s as well as teaching music at Reno and Sparks schools. Her choirs routinely won the highest marks in All-State and Regional competitions. Her students remember her with love, respect, and affection.
Naunie was also known as a magnificent leading soprano soloist for Nevada Opera in its early years.
Naunie B. Gardner was a wonderful, loving mother, mentor, teacher, and friend to all who knew her.
She is survived by three children, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Please visit and share at the Remembering Naunie B Gardner Facebook page. A Celebration of Life will be held after the Christmas holidays, time TBA
