Stephanie Ruth Skeen Gardner‑Cole, passed away on July 8, 2026, at Duke University Hospital following a brief illness. She was born on October 6, 1967, in Thomasville, NC, where she spent most all of her life. She was preceded in death by her mother, Linda Simmons Skeen Gardner, and her father, Grover Albert Skeen. She was lovingly adopted by Ronald Ford Gardner, who preceded her in death and whom she always called “Daddy.” She is survived by her husband Hodge Cole, her best friend and devoted partner. Stephanie and Hodge were married on August 17, 2002, and shared a life marked by deep affection, humor, and steadfast companionship. Also survived by her Uncle Wayne Simmons and his wife Kitty, Aunt Jane Richardson and Aunt Sara Burton and her husband Marty, Ron’s sister Diane Marsh and husband Wayne and by her longtime friend Edie Henley, who was the sister she never had. Stephanie cherished her St. Mary’s Episcopal Church family and held them close to her heart. A graduate of Oak Ridge Military Academy, where she boarded from grades 7–12, Stephanie went on to earn both her BSW and MSW from East Carolina University. She was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, serving in the Emergency Department Behavioral Health for 27 years. She was a fierce advocate for her patients, a steady presence for families in crisis, and a beloved colleague. She adored her BH Access team and supervisors and held them in the highest regard. She served on the Vestry of St. Mary’s, was 2nd Vice President of the Episcopal Church Women at St. Mary’s, a member of St. Anne’s Chapter of the ECW, co‑president of St. Mary’s chapter of The Order of the Daughters of the King, and President of the NC Diocese of The Order of the Daughters of the King. She considered St. Mary’s her family in every sense. She also served on the Board of Directors for Mobile Meals in High Point and delivered meals for many years. She continued delivering meals after they merged with Meals on Wheels. She loved her many cats and dogs, playing puzzle games on her phone, traveling, going on pilgrimages, and listening to audiobooks. Her life was marked by kindness, devotion, humor, and a heart that welcomed everyone.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice or to the St. Mary’s Music Endowment Fund at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church,108 West Farriss Ave in High Point 27262.

The funeral and interment will be held at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church on Thursday July 16th at 10 am.Online condolances may be sent to the family at www.jcgreenandsons.com.