Barney Lee Gardner

Barney Lee Gardner, born January 29, 1951, went running through the Gates of Heaven and into the arms of his precious Jesus, Saturday, January 19, 2013.

Barney was born in Lancaster, SC to the late John L. Sr. and Margie Merritt Gardner. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, John “Landy” Gardner, Jr. and Jack R. Gardner, his grandparents, and numerous extended family members.

Barney had lived the last 26 years at The Howell Center on Albemarle Road, Charlotte. The week before Thanksgiving of 2012, he was brought to Jan’s home to live. Barney brought great joy to the home, and to everyone that knew him.

He is survived by sisters, Jan Garmon and husband, Dickie, and Martha Sheppard; nieces, his beloved Lynde Garmon, and Holly Montjoy and husband, Craig; nephews, Tommy Garmon and wife, Debbie, Jamie Garmon and wife, Anne Marie, Jack Sheppard and wife, Lisa, and Scott Sheppard; and his best buddy, John Ward, from Howells.

Barney’s home going celebration will be held 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 22, at Idlewild Baptist Church with his pastor and friend, the Rev. Keith Whitener officiating.

“Barney, you’ll always be my precious buddy!! I’ll always love you, Jan.”

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Idlewild Baptist Church, Mission Fund, 12701 Idlewild Road, Matthews, NC 28105 or Shriners Hospital For Children, c/o Oasis Shriners, 604 Doug Mayes Place, Charlotte, NC 28262.

Condolences may be offered at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.