Today we gather to celebrate the long, beautiful, remarkable life of our beloved matriarch, who blessed our lives with 99 years. 

Precilla Gardner Shuler was born on June 20, 1927, to the late Billy Mack and Georgia A. Gardner, in Lowndes County, Alabama. “Pre Baby” (as she was affectionately called by family and friends), lived through nearly a century of profound history. Her journey spanned incredible eras. On June 20, 1927, America was changing rapidly and opportunities for African-Americans were often limited by segregation and discrimination. Through strength, determination, and faith, she witnessed and built a life rooted in love, family, and perseverance. 

Growing up during the Great Depression, Precilla learned the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and helping others. As a young woman, she lived through World War II and the years that followed watching her family and community overcome challenges with resilience and hope. She experienced the historic changes brought about by the Civil Rights Movement, celebrating the courages and sacrifices of those who fought for equality. Throughout her life, she remained a witness to remarkable progress while never forgetting the importance of faith, dignity, and treating others with kindness. 

Whether as a devoted daughter, loving wife to the late Robert Shuler; caring mother to two sons, Silvester (Dorothy) and Allen Wayne Shuler; aunt to many; oldest church member at Zion Travelers Primitive Baptist Church, neighbor or friend, Precilla touched countless lives. She believed in the importance of family, hard work, and trusting God through every season of life. 

She found joy in many blessings—being a part of the Mother Board, choir, Missionary Society, church daycare, sharing meals with loved ones, and celebrating family milestones. 

Her legacy is one of grace, perseverance, compassion, and enduring faith. The values she lived by continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

 Though she will be deeply missed, her life remains a testament to courage, resilience, and unconditional love. Her memory will live in the charts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched!