June 26, 1945 – September 26, 2026
Robert “Bob” Gardner, age 81, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026, surrounded by friends and his loving son at his home in Bainbridge, Georgia.
Bob was born on June 26, 1945, in Cottondale, Florida, to the late Robert and Lela Gardner. He attended Lively Technical College in Tallahassee, Florida, where he studied grafting. Bob began his career as an inspector, working for several engineering firms throughout the Tallahassee area before moving to Bainbridge in 1980. He spent many years working with Bates and Associates and eventually retired as Chief Inspector for the City of Bainbridge. Bob was a Christian, a 32nd Degree Mason through the Scottish Rite, a master gardener and cook, and a lifelong Florida State football fan. He took great pride in his work, enjoyed tending to his garden, and cherished the time he spent with his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Shirley Harris Gardner; his brothers, Ronald Gardner and Andrew “Tick” Gardner; and his sister, Paula Jane Hughes. He is survived by his two children, Robert Gardner II and Elizabeth Stoeckel; his grandchildren, Natalie Hentenaar, Harrison Gardner, Bella Bryan, Sophia Gardner, Logan Stoeckel, Sarah Kate Gardner, Cora Stoeckel, and Emerie Gardner; his brother, William Gardner, and his wife, Charlotte Gardner; as well as many extended family members and friends who will dearly miss him.
A graveside memorial service celebrating Bob’s life will be held on October 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Oak City Cemetery in Bainbridge, Georgia. Family and friends are invited to join us as we remember and honor a beloved father, grandfather, family member, and friend.
Bob has gone home to be with his Savior and his beloved Shirley in Heaven, but his memory will live on in the many lives he touched here on Earth. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who will carry his memory with them always.
Online condolences may be made at www.coxiveyfuneralhome.com. Cox-Ivey Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Dear family,
I worked with Mr. Bob at the City of Bainbridge and he was the sweetest man. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Paula Odom