Jefferson B. Gardner

Jefferson Boyd Gardner, 36, of East Claridon, was so impatient to make his way into the world that he was born at a fire station on the way to the hospital on March 18, 1985. Growing up, “Jeffy” was a sweet boy who loved outdoor adventures and played football. His mother remembers him as the most sensitive and gentle of her four boys. He was usually found traipsing through the woods with his faithful Newfoundland Midnight and his younger brother James.

Jeff was a voracious reader (likely instilled by his librarian mom) and enjoyed campfires, sport shooting, and video games. His soft heart led to a constant stream of adopted animals from kittens and puppies to his last rescue, six ducklings. He loved his family and was the ideal fun uncle — sneaking candy before dinner and introducing slightly age inappropriate first person shooter games. His nephews and niece were devoted to him. Jeff was funny - always ready with a joke or snarky comment to break tension.

Jeff left as quickly as he arrived on August 21, 2021. He is survived by his parents, Jeffrey and Carol (Hodder) Gardner, three brothers, Alexander Gardner (Jessica), Anderson Gardner (Carolyn), James Gardner (Chelsea), six nephews and niece.

A MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD AT 11:00 AM, SATURDAY, AUGUST 28TH, 2021 AT CHRIST COVENANT CHURCH, 16406 KINSMAN RD., MIDDLEFIELD, OH 44062 with Rev. Mike Southern officiation. Family and friends will be received from 10 AM until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Lake Geauga Recovery Centers, Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers, 9083 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060 or Ducks Unlimited, Ducks Unlimited, Inc., One Waterfowl Way, Memphis, Tennessee, USA 38120. If you or someone you know are struggling with addiction, please call (440) 255-0678 for help.

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