Verlon Lewis Gardner

December 2, 1929 - April 1, 2022

Verlon Lewis Gardner passed away on April 1, 2022 at the age of 92. Vern was the eldest son born to Lewis and Bessie Gardner in Mumfordsville, KY. At the young age of 13 Verlon’s father died from an injury sustained while serving in the US Navy. This required Verlon to grow up very fast and become the “Man of the house”. He, his three sisters, one brother and mother lived a simple country life in Hart County and then Edmundton, KY. He served in the US Marine Corp during the Korean Conflict and afterwards moved to Chicago to find work. There he worked for Quality Pump and as a carpenter in the Construction Industry. He had a strong work ethic and was willing to do whatever it took to make a living and provide for his family which he loved to death. In 1989, Verlon moved to St. Augustine where he continued to work as a carpenter. He became known as a Jack of all trades. After his retirement you could often find Vern working in his yard and gardening. He also enjoyed playing the guitar, and the sound of nearby trains. Last but not least, Verlon loved his heavenly father, Jehovah, and reading the Bible. He is survived by two daughters, Connie Gardner Harris and Carolyn Downings both of St. Augustine; son, Kenny Smith; 6 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. His two sons, Ronnie and Johnny Gardner preceded him in death. A time to gather with a viewing will be held on Tuesday April 5th from 2-4pm at Craig Funeral Home. His body will be entombed at Craig Memorial Park next to his wife Jeanette. In lieu of flowers please help a person in need or send a donation to the Shriners Hospitals for Children.