Samuel Gardner

On October 13, 1940 a baby boy was born to the parentage of R.C. and Mary B. Gardner. They named him Samuel C. Little did they know he would be so wise.

Sam was raised in Polk County and attended public schools graduating from Dunbar High School in 1958, after graduation Sam began his career in the work field. He retired from Union Pacific Railroad after 35 plus years. After retiring he became a farmer. He lived his life afterwards chilling and he called it doing what he wanted to do. His favorite saying was “It’s been a good day.” Sam loved softball, barbecuing, fishing, joking, and giving good advice, he met no stranger just ask any person anywhere. He always greeted people with a smile and a kind word. If you were sad, after talking with him you had forgotten why you were sad.

Sam accepted Christ at an early age and united with the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. Later he united with the Providence #1 Baptist Church in Leggett, Texas.

On July 23, 1966 Sam married the love of his life Charlene. To this union two sons were born. In 1990 they were blessed with a granddaughter “Jasmine” who became theirs. On July 23, 2021, Sam and Charlene celebrated 55 beautiful years of marriage. On July 28, 2021 the Lord called him home.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents: R.C. and Mary B. Gardner; siblings: Ella Fay Durden, Gary L. Gardner, John E. Gardner, James E. Gardner.

He leaves to cherish his memories: A loving and devoted wife of 55 years: Mrs. Charlene “Judie” Gardner of Livingston, Texas, 2 sons: Sammie Gardner (Billie), Chris Gardner (Sonya) all of Livingston, Texas; 38 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, 22 adopted sons, 3 sisters: Mary Gardner of Houston, Texas, Linda Rogers of Arkansas, Francis Jackson (Raleigh) of Humble, Texas, 2 brothers: Clifford Gardner (Gwen) of Casa Grande, Arizona, Maurice Gardner of Cleveland, Texas; daughter-in-law: Tina Crawford; 5 sisters-in-law; 4 brothers-in-law; grandchildren he raised: Jasmine Hinds, Jade Gardner, De’Angelo Crawford, Dameon Youngblood. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Pallbearers: Chris Davis, Curt Johnson, Marvin Robinson, John Henry Miles, Pat Robinson, Robert Briggs.

Honorary Pallbearers: Sherman Gardner, Samuel Gardner, Keith Gardner, Greg Gardner, Joe Jackson Sr., Dave Phillips, Tod Dirden, De’Angelo Crawford.