Robert Gardner

Robert Gardner, 70, of Albany, GA, passed away Friday, June 17, 2016 at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, June 19, 2016 at 3:00 pm at Mathews Funeral Home. Rev. Jeff Henry will officiate. Interment will follow in Leesburg Cemetery.

Born in Albany, GA, Robert joined the United States Navy and served his country for four years. Upon discharge Robert briefly returned to Albany before relocating to Orlando FL, earning employment with Citrus Central and remaining with them his entire career. Once retired he began four years driving for C&W Transport. Mr. Gardner has resided in the Lee County for the Past fifteen years. He was a member of SWGA Sportsman Club, Loyal Order of the Moose 1285, VFW post 2785, and past member of the IHRA. Robert was of the Baptist faith. He was preceded in death by a daughter Marilyn Allen and a brother Davis Gardner Sr.

Survivors include a daughter Lori (Mark) Osborne of Rome, GA, two sons Robert (Mary Ann) Gardner Jr. of Cottageville, SC, Robert Lewis (Donna) Gardner of Port Charlotte, FL, a son-in-law Larry Allen of Summerville, GA, and two brothers Danny (Susie) Gardner of Albany, GA, Roger Gardner and his girlfriend Donna Strickland of Lee County, GA, a sister Patricia Ann (Paul) Burke of Albany, GA, grandchildren Summer (Aaron) Smith, Bridgette Buffington, Angel Allen, Dustin Buffington, Cameron Buffington all of Rome, GA, and Mercedes Gardner of the Philippines, and one great grandchild Sawyer Smith of Rome, GA.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Sunday.