Cherry Gardner Hartley

Cherry Gardner Hartley, 77, of Summerville, SC, passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

Born on May 19, 1948, in Anniston, AL, Cherry was the daughter of the late Helen "Jane" Tyson Gardner and the late Lee "Cleve" Gardner.

Cherry had a bright and lively personality that was commonly shown in her love for music, especially Elvis, and dancing. Being the southern girl she was, she had a deep-rooted love for the Lord and Alabama football. To receive her love was a gift, as she would make sure everyone knew about the people she loved. She would spend hours of her time sharing stories about her loved ones to anyone who would listen. To see her face light up with joy when given a chance to share her stories was a beautiful sight to see. Her family will always cherish the memories they shared with her, as she did with them. She was unquestionably loved and will be greatly missed

In addition to her parents, Cherry is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry O. Hartley; and sons, Ralph L. Akins and David T. Akins.

Cherry is survived by her son, Michael (Leslie) Akins; daughter, Cerah Elkins (Chris); brothers: Lee Gardner (Dede), Sam Gardner, Rick Gardner (Tammy), and Stan Gardner; sister, Lynne Mastantuno (Rector); grandsons: Michael Akins, Christian Akins and Sebastian Akins; and granddaughters: Samantha Akins, Hailee Elkins, Alexys Warner and Ava Warner.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 2501 Bees Ferry Road, Charleston, SC 29414, (843) 722-8371.