MULKEYTOWN – Christy Rae Gartner, 65, of Mulkeytown, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at her residence.
She was born on May 17, 1960, to Jerry Rae Kerr and Jeannine A. Smith in Herrin, IL.
On May 24, 1978, she married Kurt Gartner, who preceded her in death on December 6, 2024. Their love story spanned more than 46 years, marked by reliability and consistency that had a positive impact on those around them. Theirs was a love rooted in honesty and dedication.
Christy found her place of faith while in her swing in the backyard, enjoying nature and overlooking the pond. She was known for her soft-spoken, gentle, and understanding personality—an old soul. Christy was a loving mother, an adoring grandma, and a truly committed wife and daughter. She was also known for her soft spot for animals and her love for the family pets. She often spoke fondly of favorites like Tommy, Phoebe, Stinky, Lucky, and Harley.
Christy loved to read a variety of books, maintaining a small library of titles downloaded on her Kindle. She also enjoyed crafts and arts, with a specialty in pencil but a talent across mediums. She took special pride in creating personal and meaningful keepsakes. In addition, she was incredibly intelligent, quick-witted, and had a fun but dark sense of humor, specializing in sarcasm. One of her favorite retirement hobbies was taking care of the property and teaching her grandchildren the art of starting a fire.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Rachel (Bart Bradley) Gartner of Benton, IL; four grandchildren, Hudson, Abby, and Isabella Gartner, and Fallyn Sprowls; her brother, Darrin Kerr; uncle, Carl Smith; nieces and nephews, Hanna Gartner and family, Kyle and Chelbie Mitchell and family, Ian and Sam Perry, Jacob Bowling, Colin and Aiden Herron-Kerr, and Karen Weaver; and her best friend, Gwennie Holder.
Christy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kurt Gartner; her brother, Steven Kerr; her mother-in-law, Gwenlyn Sue Gartner; and her former brother-in-law, Randy Bowling.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home & Crematory, Benton, IL.
In accordance with Christy’s wishes, cremation will take place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Franklin County Animal Shelter and will be accepted at the funeral home.
