Dr. Gardner, Sr.

Dr. Ernest Jason Gardner, Sr., 85, of Spartanburg, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Thursday, July 14, 2011, at Spartanburg Hospital for Restorative Care. Born December 11, 1925, in Columbia, he was the son of the late Henry Ernest and Alma Ruppe Gardner. Dr. Gardner, was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Spartanburg since 1948 where he was also a former deacon. He was a dentist in the community for 41 years, a Mason, and a Shriner. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Mary Belle Jones Gardner, of the home; sons, Dr. Ernie Gardner, Jr. (Cathy) of Spartanburg, and Dr. Ron Gardner of Greenville; daughter, Debbie Gardner of the home; grandchildren, Jason Franklin Gardner (Shelly), Jeffrey Scott Gardner, Jason Campbell "Jack" Gardner, and Anna Kate Gardner, all of Charleston. He was predeceased by a sister, Mardenia Hillman. The family extends a special thanks to his caregiver, JoAne Sarter, for her compassionate nursing, and to a special neighbor, Ross Anderson, who was always available when needed. Visitation will be 1:30-2:45 PM Sunday, July 17, 2011, in the sanctuary at First Baptist Church of Spartanburg. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM, conducted by the Rev. Sal Barone, the Rev. Bill Adams, the Rev. Dr. John Wilton, and the Rev. Robert C. Morgan. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Honorary escorts will be members of the Spartanburg County Dental Society. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Spartanburg, 250 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29306; or Mobile Meals Service, PO Box 461, Spartanburg, SC 29304. The family is at the home. Floyd's Greenlawn Chapel To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dr. Ernest Jason Gardner, Sr. please visit our Sympathy Store.