Joseph Gardner Obituary

URBANA – Joseph "Mickey" Gardner, 86, of Urbana, Ohio passed away peacefully on Jan. 30, 2024, in Urbana, Ohio.

Joe was born on June 8, 1937 in Birmingham, Alabama and then moved as a young boy to live with his Aunt Annie and Uncle Ed in Urbana, Ohio. Joe was an amazing athlete for the Urbana Hillclimbers. He was a football and basketball standout. Joe graduated from Urbana High School in 1955 and went into the Army in 1956. After serving in the Army, he came back to Urbana to work for Chi-Vit (CV Materials) for over 40 years.

Joe married Anita (Scott) Gardner on July 3, 1970. Marrying Anita and becoming a dad were two of his greatest achievements in life. He loved "his girls," as he would say.

Joe loved to watch his sports teams, The Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Reds. Joe was also an amazing grandpa to his grand-dogs over the years. He loved taking them for walks all around Urbana and making sure he shared the couch with them for nap time. Joe was a member of Jerusalem Second Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon for many years. Joe was loved by many families and friends. We will always carry his memory in our hearts.

Joe is survived by his amazing and loving wife of 53 years, Anita (Scott) Gardner, his remarkable daughter, Amica Gardner and sweet grand-dog Evie.

Joe is preceded in death by his mother, Mildred, his Aunt Annie, and his sister Sarah Ann Finley.

Per the family, a celebration of life will be held at a later date in the spring.

Arrangements have been entrusted to VERNON FUNERAL HOME, Urbana, Ohio.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.vernonfh.com.