Mary Letitia Logan Gardner “Tish” Childs passed away peacefully over Memorial Day Weekend at the age of 97, after enjoying one of her favorite meals; oysters. Tish will join the two Naval Aviators she so dearly loved. A devoted military wife, patriot, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, mentor, and friend, Tish truly bled red, white, and blue. Her love of country was woven into every part of her life — and most certainly into her wardrobe.

Mary Letitia Logan, was born in the back seat of a Model T in Old Hickory, TN. Tish lived a vibrant and beautiful life centered around family, friendship, faith, entertaining, preservation, and service to her community. She attended Sullins College in Bristol, VA. She was the proud wife of two U.S. Naval Aviators and embraced military life with grace, strength, and unwavering patriotism.

She is preceded in death by her husbands, Walter Thomas Gardner Jr. and William Jackson Childs; her older brother, Robert Henry Logan, Jr; her beloved grandson, William Grant Tucker and son-in-law, William Curtis Woolverton.

Tish is survived by her children, Anne Gardner Frechette (Paul), Peggy Gardner Woolverton, Mary Letitia Beyts (Daniel), Walter Thomas Gardner III, and Adelene Logan Murdoch (Michael); her stepdaughters, Susan Jane Childs and Victoria Marie Childs; her brothers, William Welsh Logan (Brenda) and Joseph Clayton Logan (Mary); and the cherished “Gigi” to her grandchildren, Alexis Paige Gardner (Adam), Amanda Logan Busse (Blake), Letitia Logan Beyts, and William Bryce Clayton. She also leaves behind her great granddaughter, Jennifer Anne Tucker Frechette, and great-grandsons Luke Anakin Hart and Troy Thomas-Keith Hart.

Tish shared an especially close bond with her only son, Tom. Wednesdays belonged to the two of them — getting her hair done, enjoying oysters together, and simply spending treasured time side by side.

A talented interior designer in her earlier years, Tish later became a beloved businesswoman alongside her daughters Anne and Peggy when they founded The Market and Mainly Shoes in 1984. Together, they spent decades curating beautiful fashion and memorable experiences for loyal customers who became lifelong friends. Their buying trips to New York City for market were among Tish’s happiest adventures.

Tish was also deeply devoted to preserving the beauty and history of Pensacola’s North Hill neighborhood and was a member of the North Hill Preservation Society. She served on the board of the Pensacola Heritage Foundation and played an instrumental role in the restoration and decoration of the historic Barkley House, carefully furnishing it with period pieces authentic to the era. Her love of architecture, antiques, design, and gracious Southern living made her a natural advocate for preserving the character and charm of one of Pensacola’s most treasured historic communities.

A gifted hostess, Tish taught her daughters the art of entertaining with elegance, warmth, and Southern charm. Her home in Pensacola’s historic North Hill neighborhood became a gathering place filled with laughter, antiques, beautiful tablescapes, and treasured collections she lovingly passed down to her family. She was often sighted in her gorgeous garden tending to her blooming azalea garden.

A member of Christ Episcopal Church in Pensacola, Tish dedicated countless hours organizing the Christ Church Antique Show, where she delighted in welcoming antique dealers and guests into her home and community.

Tish loved to travel and explore the world. One of her proudest adventures was a memorable trip to China with the mother of Senator John McCain — an experience she spoke of often.

Beyond her own family, Tish became a second mother and mentor to countless women throughout her life, many of whom lovingly referred to themselves as her “adopted daughters.” Her encouragement, wisdom, style, humor, and unwavering loyalty left an indelible mark on generations of women she guided and inspired. Among those who held a particularly special place in her heart, were Pat Selkirk and Dr. Ellen McKnight, both of whom shared treasured friendships with Tish over many years.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to her dear friend and devoted caretaker, Stephanie Polnitz (Lavender Lady), who spent nearly every day by Tish’s side. Together they enjoyed shopping, dining, visiting family and friends, and making the most of life’s simple pleasures. Stephanie’s companionship and care brought Tish immeasurable comfort and joy in her later years.

Tish leaves behind a legacy of patriotism, style, hospitality, resilience, mentorship, and deep love for family and friends. Her children, grandchildren, and all who knew her will forever cherish the treasures, traditions, and memories she so generously shared.

A private burial will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery. Please join the family on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 4:00 pm for a memorial service at Christ Episcopal Church and a reception following at 511 Palafox St.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Tunnel for Towers (https://t2t.org/donate/).