Laura Dollahite Gardner

Laura Dollahite Gardner, 63, passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 22, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Waco, with Dr. Matt Snowden presiding, and the Reverend Dr. Leslie King Eulogizing. A visitation with the family will precede the service at 12:30 p.m. in the foyer of First Baptist.

Laura was born November 18, 1960, to Joy and Ed Dollahite at Baylor Hospital in Garland, Texas. She was a beautiful and healthy baby. At 3 years of age, she moved to Waco, Texas, and was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes. Laura would stand in front of the television as a toddler, dancing and imitating what she saw on the screen. Her father commented, “I hope she’s never on the stage” but, she was. She had dance lessons with Miss Nannette and would appear with the Waco Children’s Theater & Waco Civic Theater. At the age of 9, Laura made her profession of faith to Christ at First Baptist of Waco.

Laura attended Lon Morris College, which was known for its theatre program. After college she moved to Dallas, Texas, where she photo doubled for Charlene Tilton on the hit television series, “Dallas”. She also appeared in the stage play, “Hair”. She then spent her time traveling the United States while performing in musical and comedy shows. Laura was also very active in Muscular Dystrophy camps and telethons for fundraising.

In 1984 she moved back to Waco, where she ran into a high school friend, Tim Gardner, and the two were married in 1988. Laura worked at the Hilton Hotel, located in downtown Waco, and she loved it. She also loved her time of employment at Pier One. Through her life married to Tim, they were diligent in their love and care of a large feral cat colony resident to the area.

Laura is survived by her Mother, Joy Green; her husband, Tim Gardner, and other loving family members.

The family wants to thank Rosario, Cynthia, Maria, and Atalia for your compassion, love, and care during Laura’s times of need. Also, Tim’s Baylor Scott and White extended family, who also provided compassionate and loving care.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on Laura’s “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.