Claude Gardner, Jr., 83, of Indianola, passed away Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at South Sunflower County Hospital.
Claude was born August 26, 1940, in Gunnison, to Claude and Frances Simpson Gardner. He worked for Gardner Engineering in Indianola for many years as an Inspector. Claude married Amber Philmon Gardner, and together they made their home in Indianola. He enjoyed trips to Branson to see the Elvis impersonators, Nascar racing, and his time socializing with his friends over a cup of coffee. He loved coffee and always had Equal in his pocket for when he would find a cup. Claude enjoyed grilling and doing things for his family, but he was very set in his ways and hardheaded, so it always had to be his way. He was always known to go around whistling. Claude loved pets and raised many rescues.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Wayne Gardner; sister, Shirley Dixon; and son, Claude Gardner, III.
Claude is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Amber Gardner of Indianola; daughter, Polly Pieroni (Philip) of Lake Village, Arkansas; two grandchildren, Haley Lott (John) of Oxford and Joey Smith of Indianola; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visitation will be held Friday, January 12, 2024, from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm, at Burton Funeral Home in Indianola. The memorial service will begin at 2:00 pm at Burton Funeral Home with Rev. Fish Robinson officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hough Dement Animal Shelter, 342 Martin Luther King Dr., Indianola, MS 38751 or Mutt Madness, 102 Morgan Rd, Greenville, MS 38701.
