James C. Gardner II

A visitation for James will be held Friday, January 29, 2021 from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Traders Point Christian Church North, 1242 W. 136th Street, Carmel, IN 46032.

James Carlton Gardner II, was born on June 8, 1977 in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Stephanie (Livers) Gardner and the late James Carlton Gardner, Sr. He is the third of four children. 

As a child, although James was quiet, he still managed to find his fair share of mischief. James was always getting into “something”, making babysitting him on weekends a real “treat” for his adoring grandparents. From the day he was born, James was dearly loved and spoiled by his parents, grandparents, siblings and relatives. He was affectionately known as “Baby James”, “Little James”, “Jamie”, “James Jr.”, and “Wamers.”

Having professed a belief in Christ, James was baptized at St. John Missionary Baptist Church. He later became a member at Eastern Star Church.

There was a special bond between James and his mother, Stephanie. He was a caring, protective, and thoughtful son. James took particular pride in finding creative ways to honor his mother on special occasions, always bringing her great joy and love. Throughout his life, James remained close to her, keeping her well-being at the forefront of his attention. 

James adored his older sister, Cheri. He looked up to her and cherished the time they spent together. The sincere conversations they had about family, were always meaningful to him.

James’s love of family was evident. He also shared a close and fun-loving relationship with his sister, Treci. They often spent late nights up talking about sports, their children, and life in general. It was not unusual to see them out having lunch or watching a game together, always staying connected.

Likewise, James was loving and supportive of his younger brother, Jason. Growing up together, he often allowed Jason tag along wherever he went.  The brothers shared a love of basketball. Being the elder, James took credit for elevating Jason’s skill as a player by never “letting” him win, and instead, forcing a true battle on the court for any chance of bragging rights. Their closeness was a brotherhood steeped in love, respect, and friendly competition.

A natural born athlete, as a child James tried his hand at baseball, soccer, tennis, wrestling, and football, but ultimately found his love in basketball. Anyone who saw him play could not deny his incredible ability on the court. Being a left-handed player, James was exceptionally hard to guard. The combination of his sheer athleticism, unrelenting competitive spirit, and super “hops” made many opponents charged with the task of defending against James feel uneasy, if not unlucky, from the start; he always played to win.

James attended Washington Township schools in Indianapolis, Indiana. He played football and basketball at Westlane Middle School. Upon entering North Central High School, he also played tennis as a freshman and continued with basketball throughout all four years. Winning the 1995 Indiana High School Varsity Sectional Championship with his teammates was one of James’s most honored and cherished memories. 

Following his high school graduation, James received a basketball scholarship to play at Indianapolis University-Purdue University at Indianapolis (IUPUI). Later, he transferred his eligibility to play at [then] Marian College in Indianapolis [currently Marian University]. Marking his successful basketball career at Marian, James set several long standing records in the program’s history including the 2nd All-time Highest Number of Blocks (also earning the distinction of most blocks in a single season), the 13th All-time Highest in Scoring, and the 15th All-time Highest Number of  Rebounds. James graduated from Marian College, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sports Management.

In addition to his education and basketball experiences at Marian, it was there that James was blessed in meeting his life-long true love, Amy Garrison. The young couple met on his first day of college; the love and commitment of James and Amy endured for 25 years. Together, they created a beautiful life, raising their two wonderful children. James loved and adored his daughter and son, Jadyn McKenzie and Braxton James, lovingly known as “Jades” and “B Man”, respectively. As a dedicated father, James loved watching his children participate in sports and extracurricular activities. He was a fun dad who enjoyed watching scary movies, carving pumpkins, and trick-or-treating with them on Halloween. Oftentimes, just spending quiet time with his family around the fire pit was James’s happy place. The family also loved to take cruises together, building lasting memories.

James’s nature was kind-hearted and free-spirited; he was known by many as being a wise man of few words. Although quiet in his demeanor, James always listened intently, making others feel nurtured and loved. He lived his life with no urgency. He lived his life according to his passions and timing, doing things in his own way.  He greeted everyone with a huge, welcoming smile. He was a jokester who loved pranking other people and could find humor in almost any situation.

In his free time, James loved watching movies, crime investigation shows, and sports. A devoted fan, he loved his Michigan Wolverines and Tom Brady’s New England Patriots. James also loved to eat. He never missed an opportunity to enjoy his favorite culinary treats at the Indiana State Fair. He further enjoyed family gatherings and holiday dinners, always leaving with a large plate (or 2) for later. In addition to family get-togethers and great food, James enjoyed the opportunity throughout his life to travel many places in the U.S. and overseas. One of his favorite destinations was Paris, France. He loved and adored all animals, especially his four dogs, Dexter, Onyx, Sasha and Relic and his snake Demetris. 

If you thought James was a powerhouse on the basketball court, you would have enjoyed watching him on the dodgeball court.  James took pride in fiercely competing in a dodgeball league for four years, with close friends and family.  He helped lead the “Naptown Ballerz” to an undefeated season and league championship.   

James was employed by Citizens Energy Group of Indianapolis prior to his illness. Continuing his love of basketball, he often served as a referee. James also worked as a bartender at the Ruoff Music Center.

For those who knew him, James made a lasting impression with his kindness and loving heart. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. James departed this life on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at the age of 43, surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his father, James C. Gardner, Sr.; grandparents, Anna and Leonard Sansbury, John Gardner, and Bellwood Livers; James leaves to cherish his loving memories, his mother, Stephanie Gardner; life partner, Amy Garrison; daughter, Jadyn Gardner; son, Braxton Gardner; sisters, Treci Davidson (Michael) and Cheri Harris; brother, Jason Gardner, Sr.; sisters-in-law, Jacqui Gardner and Kimberly Gallegos (Noe); grandmother, Mary Evans Livers; mother-in-law, Shirley Gray (Squirrels); and a host of beloved aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins, teammates and countless friends.