Mann—Emmie Gardner Mann, 75, on November 26, 2024, following exacerbation of her Parkinson’s disease, in Greensboro, N.C. Gardner, as she was known, was born on May 3, 1949, the daughter of LeRoy Benjamin Mann and Emogene McDill Mann Reeves in Gastonia, N.C. She had an older brother, Robert, and a younger brother, Joseph.
Gardner graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1974 with a bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences. She received board certification in pharmacy in 1975. During her career, she worked as a pharmacist in Greensboro and surrounding areas.
Gardner married Rufus Larry “Rus” McCarter on October 3, 1992. They enjoyed traveling, especially to the mountains and to Hilton Head Island, where they owned property. Gardner and Rus took a particularly memorable vacation to the Galapagos Islands. Gardner enjoyed reading books in her spare time.
Rus and Gardner were active members at New Garden Meeting in Greensboro. They led workshops on “A Course in Miracles.”
Gardner developed Parkinson’s disease. She joined a group called Rock Steady Boxing, which used boxing to help members with their symptoms. She chose to be called “Golden Girl” when she was boxing. Gardner said that she viewed Parkinson’s as an adventure rather than a fight.
Gardner was predeceased by a brother, Robert L. Mann; and a stepson, Loren Michael McCarter.
She is survived by her husband, Rus McCarter; one stepson, Luther Glenn McCarter; and her younger brother, Joseph Edwin Mann (Susan).
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