Violet Gardner, 79, of Lillington, formerly of Raleigh, passed away, Thursday, March 07, 2024 in Lillington, NC. 

Violet was born March 9, 1944, in Wake County to the late Lee Roy Bridges and Dora Vann Woodlief Bridges.  She was a successful businesswoman and a star basketball player in High School and College.  Violet, most of all, was a caring mother and grandmother, always willing to help those in need from paying utility bills to providing food to those who needed assistance. 

She was preceded in death by her brothers, Morris Bridges, and George Bridges. 

Violet is survived by her sons, Jeffrey Gardner and wife, Lynda, and Michael Pearce; sister, Phyllis; brother, Lee Roy; three grandchildren, Michelle, Meagan, and Dylan; and one great grandchild, Magnolia.

A private family service will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to any Alzheimer’s research organization.